The National Association of Telecoms Subscribers (NATCOMS) has rejected the proposed increase in telecommunication tariffs, labelling it “insensitive” and an additional burden on consumers already struggling with economic challenges.
Following an emergency meeting on Tuesday, NATCOMS issued a communique condemning the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) for considering the tariff hike.
According to telecom operators, the proposed increase is necessary to address inflation, currency depreciation, and rising costs of equipment, which are often priced in dollars. They also noted that tariffs have remained unchanged for over a decade despite mounting financial pressures.
Under the proposal, the cost of voice calls would rise from ₦11.00 to ₦15.40 per minute, text messages from ₦4.00 to ₦5.60, and one gigabyte of data from ₦1,000 to ₦1,400.
NATCOMS argued these hikes would exacerbate financial hardships for Nigerians, reduce access to essential communication services, and burden subscribers further amidst the rising cost of living.
The communique, signed by National President Chief Adeolu Ogunbanjo and National Secretary Barrister Bayo Omotubora, criticised the NCC’s approval, calling it a violation of its duty to protect consumers.
“The unrelenting rise in prices of goods and services has made life extremely difficult for citizens. This new increment is one burden too many,” NATCOMS stated.
The association also raised concerns over the cumulative impact of taxes on telecom services, including an excise duty introduced by the 2020 Finance Act, which is currently under legal challenge.
NATCOMS suggested alternative solutions for telecom operators, such as listing their companies on the Nigerian Stock Exchange to raise funds, rather than burdening subscribers.
The association urged the NCC to withdraw its approval of the tariff hike and called for consumer-friendly strategies to address financial challenges in the sector.
NATCOMS reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for affordable and accessible telecom services for Nigerians.