The federal government has ordered a reversal of the 10 percent tariff increase by telecommunication companies on calls and data.
This was revealed in a statement by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).
The commission said the initial consideration for 10 per cent approval for tariff adjustments for different voice and data packages was in line with the mandates of the commission as provided by the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003, and other extant Regulations and Guidelines, as this was within the provisions of existing price floor and price cap as determined for the industry.
The statement signed by the Director, Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka, said its decision to allow telcos review the prices of some of their tariffs was taken after it critically and realistically reviewed and analysed the operational environment and the current business climate in the nation.
The NCC, however, said even though the tariff adjustment was provisionally approved by its management, its board had now overturned it.
“Much as there is an increase in the cost of production, the provision of telecom services is still very profitable and it is necessary that the subscribers are not subjected to a hike in charges. In view of the above, the Commission, through a letter sent on the 12th of October 2022, has already directed the affected Mobile Network Operators to reverse the upward tariff adjustment.
“The Commission will carry out further consultations with all industry stakeholders on the best approaches that will protect and uphold the interest of both the consumers and the service providers,” the statement read in part.
