The Senate has urged the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy to engage with telecom providers and review the recent surge in data costs. The resolution comes in response to a sharp increase in internet prices, which has seen data costs rise by up to 200% in some cases.
Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong (APC-Cross River) brought the issue to the forefront during Wednesday’s plenary session, sponsoring a motion titled “Urgent Need to Address the Increased Cost of Data Services in Nigeria.” Ekpenyong highlighted the significant financial strain this price hike has placed on Nigerians, particularly young people who rely on the internet for their livelihoods.
“Many young Nigerians have embraced the digital economy, leveraging online platforms for freelancing, remote work, digital marketing, and social media management,” Ekpenyong stated. “The sudden and substantial increase in data cost threatens their economic survival and limits access to critical digital services.”
Senate President Godswill Akpabio expressed support for the motion, noting its potential to benefit young entrepreneurs. “This motion, when implemented, would assist young entrepreneurs. It will not only enable them to remain in business but also ensure they have affordable prices that will generate revenue and profits for them,” Akpabio said.
The Senate’s resolution goes beyond just reviewing data costs. It also calls for:
Development of a policy framework for affordable internet services in Nigeria
Establishment and support of tech hubs across the country, providing free or subsidized internet access for young entrepreneurs, students, and innovators
Investigation into the factors driving high data costs and recommendations for a sustainable, business-friendly telecommunications sector
MTN Nigeria has raised its 1.8GB monthly plan to ₦1,500, up from ₦1,000 for a 1.5GB plan. Similarly, the cost of sending text messages has increased across all networks from ₦4.00 to ₦6.00 per SMS.
As the Ministry of Communications engages with telecom providers, many Nigerians, especially those in the burgeoning digital economy, will be eagerly awaiting the outcome of these discussions and hoping for more affordable internet access in the near future.
