The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has provided assurances to Nigerians that the recent tariff changes sanctioned for Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) are strategic initiatives designed to enhance service quality and ensure long-term viability within the telecommunications industry.
In his address in Abuja on Thursday, the Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Wada Maida, who was represented by the Acting Director of Public Affairs, Nnenna Ukoha, indicated that the new tariffs are instrumental in restoring profitability to telecom operators who have faced significant challenges due to foreign exchange fluctuations in recent years.
Although the tariff adjustment process does not allow for direct consumer involvement owing to its technical complexity, Maida underscored that the NCC acts as a robust guardian of consumer interests by thoroughly reviewing operator submissions.
He also disclosed that investments in the telecommunications sector are projected to increase substantially in 2025, surpassing the levels observed in the previous two years.
Regarding the tariff-setting methodology, Maida clarified that Nigeria’s deregulated telecom sector adheres to a transparent, data-driven framework.
News360 Info reports that the Commission undertakes comprehensive, cost-based analyses prior to sanctioning any new tariff arrangements.
“About two years ago, some major operators were recording significant losses. Although revenues were increasing, heavy forex-related obligations wiped out much of the gains, which directly impacted service quality,” Dr. Maida explained.
“With the recent tariff review, operators are returning to profitability, enabling them to reinvest in network infrastructure. This will result in noticeable improvements in service quality and user experience nationwide.
“Operators must provide comprehensive cost breakdowns to justify proposed tariffs. This allows the Commission to ensure charges remain fair, cost-oriented, and in line with economic and technical realities,” he added.
In addressing wider industry challenges, the EVC emphasised problems such as fibre cuts, difficulties in identity verification, vandalism of infrastructure, elevated energy costs, and constraints related to Rights of Way (RoW).
Maida pointed out that the Commission is currently working in partnership with stakeholders, including the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), to protect telecom infrastructure and facilitate the prosecution of those who commit vandalism.
“We are committed to naming and shaming perpetrators and are working with the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation to ensure that cases of infrastructure damage are fully prosecuted,” he stated.
Maida also reaffirmed the NCC’s alignment with the national framework on Critical National Infrastructure (CNI), coordinated by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).
“Telecom infrastructure is critical to national security and economic growth. Any individual or group found disrupting it will face the full weight of the law,” he warned.
The NCC reassured the public of its continued commitment to transparency and stakeholder engagement, particularly in providing accurate information on tariffs and industry standards.
“It is not the public’s responsibility to monitor operator pricing. That’s our mandate,” Dr. Maida concluded.
“We remain open to collaboration and will continue to share reliable data on telecom tariffs and performance metrics.”
He called for continued support from the media and the public as the Commission intensifies efforts to enhance digital connectivity, consumer satisfaction, and service reliability across Nigeria.
