The cost of staying connected in Nigeria is about to rise as the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has approved a 50% increase in tariffs for telecom services like calls, SMS, and data. This decision, announced on Monday, January 20, 2025, comes after telecom giants such as MTN and Airtel requested tariff adjustments to cope with rising operational costs.
For context, this means that the price of 1GB of data, which currently ranges between ₦300 and ₦600, could now climb anywhere between ₦450 and ₦900, depending on your service provider.
The NCC explained that this is the first tariff adjustment since 2013. Over the years, telecom operators have faced skyrocketing costs due to inflation, foreign exchange challenges, and other economic pressures. While the operators initially pushed for a 100% increase, the NCC capped it at 50% to cushion the impact on consumers.
In a statement signed by Reuben Muoka, NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, the Commission emphasized that the adjustment is necessary to ensure that telecom companies can continue providing quality services while investing in infrastructure and innovation.
If you’re a regular user of mobile data or make frequent calls and send SMS messages, you’ll likely feel the pinch in your pocket. For example:
A 1GB data plan that used to cost ₦500 may now cost up to ₦750.
Call rates and SMS charges are also expected to increase proportionally.
However, the NCC has mandated that network providers implement these changes transparently and inform customers about the new rates. They are also required to demonstrate improvements in service delivery, such as better network quality and wider coverage.
The NCC said it arrived at this decision after consulting with stakeholders across both public and private sectors. While acknowledging the financial strain this may place on Nigerians already dealing with economic challenges, the Commission stressed that sustaining the telecom industry is critical for Nigeria’s digital economy.
“The NCC recognizes the financial pressures faced by Nigerian households and businesses,” said Muoka. “To this end, we’ve ensured that these adjustments are fair and balanced to protect consumers while supporting operators.”
Telecom operators are expected to roll out these new tariffs soon, though no exact date has been announced yet. Consumers are advised to monitor updates from their service providers for specific details on how this will affect their plans.
While this development may not be welcome news for many Nigerians, it highlights the growing challenges faced by industries trying to navigate Nigeria’s tough economic landscape.
