Tariff Hike: Telecoms Could Sell Data At N560/1GB

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Nigerians may soon see a rise in the cost of telecom services, with the price of 1GB of data potentially increasing to ₦560 under a proposed tariff adjustment.

The Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, revealed that while telecom operators sought a 100% hike, the government was considering a 30–60% increase to balance industry sustainability with consumer protection.

If the maximum 60% adjustment is approved, the cost of calls could rise from ₦11 to ₦17.6 per minute, SMS from ₦4 to ₦6.4, and 1GB of data from ₦350 to ₦560.

Telecom operators, including MTN Nigeria, cited inflation, naira devaluation, and rising operational costs as reasons for the proposed hike. MTN CEO Karl Toriola emphasized that the adjustment was critical to sustaining the sector.

However, Tijani opposed the 100% hike, warning it could harm citizens who heavily rely on telecom services. He stressed the importance of balancing affordability with the need for telecom companies to invest in the sector, which is vital for Nigeria’s economic growth.

Airtel Nigeria also backed the proposal, highlighting that the adjustments were necessary to address increasing operational and capital costs while ensuring long-term industry sustainability. The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is conducting stakeholder consultations and is expected to announce the final decision within two weeks.

Meanwhile, the National Association of Telecoms Subscribers (NATCOMS) rejected the proposed hike, describing it as “insensitive” amidst economic hardship. NATCOMS President Adeolu Ogunbanjo threatened a class-action lawsuit if operators proceed without exploring alternative revenue strategies.

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