Telecommunications
Telecom Subscribers Condemn Proposed Tariff Hike, Urge NCC to Revoke Approval
The National Association of Telecoms Subscribers (NATCOMS) has vehemently opposed the reported hike in telecom tariffs, calling on the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) not to hearken to telecoms operators.
In a communiqué issued after an emergency meeting, NATCOMS emphasized the need to protect consumers’ interests amid rising economic challenges.
Signed by its National President, Adeolu Ogunbanjo, and National Secretary, Bayo Omotubora, the communiqué criticized the proposed tariff adjustments, which would increase voice call rates from N11.00 to N15.40 per minute, SMS charges from N4.00 to N5.60, and 1GB of data from N1,000 to N1,400.
The association warned that the 40% tariff increase, combined with a 12.5% tax rate, would force two-thirds of telecom subscribers out of the market, further burdening consumers already grappling with economic hardship.
“This decision contradicts the NCC’s duty to safeguard the interests of telecom users,” the communiqué stated, suggesting that operators explore alternative funding options rather than imposing additional costs on subscribers.
NATCOMS also highlighted the adverse impact of previous tax hikes, such as the increase in Value Added Tax (VAT) from 5% to 7.5%, and urged the NCC to reconsider the tariff adjustment for the benefit of all Nigerians.