Sticker Shock: FG Plans 30-60% Increase In Telecom Charges

Sticker Shock: FG Plans 30-60% Increase In Telecom Charges

The federal government has announced plans to implement a 30-60% increase in telecommunications tariffs to ensure the sustainability of the sector while maintaining affordability for Nigerians.

Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, revealed the proposal during an interview, noting that recommendations from consultants, including KPMG, informed the decision.

“Telecoms contribute over 16% to our GDP and are integral to our digital economy,” Dr. Tijani said. “We must balance affordability for consumers with the sector’s viability.”

Rejecting demands for a 100% hike by telecom operators, Dr. Tijani emphasized the government’s priority to protect consumers while addressing sectoral challenges.

Key Updates on Sector Initiatives

1. Rural Connectivity Investments: The government plans to deploy 90,000 kilometers of fiber-optic networks and build telecom towers in underserved areas.
2. Tax Harmonization: Efforts are underway to declare telecom infrastructure as critical national assets and harmonize taxes to reduce the burden on operators.
3. Service Delivery Assurance: Measures are being implemented to hold operators accountable for service disruptions and improve connectivity standards.

Dr. Tijani reassured Nigerians of the government’s commitment to enhancing digital accessibility, with targets set for 25 Mbps in urban areas and 10 Mbps in rural regions.

Consumer-Centric Approach

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is overseeing the tariff review process to ensure data-driven decisions that benefit consumers and promote sector sustainability.

The initiative aligns with broader government objectives to foster a robust digital economy and bridge the connectivity gap nationwide.

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