Nigerians may soon experience a hike in call, data, and SMS charges as the Federal Government considers approving a tariff review. The last tariff review occurred 11 years ago, and telecom operators have been intensifying their calls for an increase.
Telecom Operators Push for Tariff Hike
Major telecom operators, including MTN, Glo, Airtel, and 9mobile, have consistently advocated for a tariff hike. The National Association of Telecommunications Subscribers (NATCOMS) has also suggested a 10% increase in tariffs.
Financial Strains on Telecom Operators
Telecom operators are facing significant financial challenges, including rising diesel prices and foreign exchange losses. MTN Nigeria’s CEO, Karl Toriola, warned that the company may shut down if tariffs are not reviewed. The company reported a N519.1 billion loss in the first half of 2024.
Government Hints at Possible Tariff Hike
The Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, has hinted at a possible tariff hike. However, he emphasized that the government will explore all options to support the telecom industry, including investing in digital infrastructure.
If the tariff hike is approved, Nigerians can expect increased charges for calls, data, and SMS services. This may have a significant impact on individuals and businesses that rely heavily on telecom services.