Nigeria’s consumers object to potential tariff increase

21 August 2024

Nigeria’s telecom consumers are opposed to a possible increase in the tariffs of services provided by mobile phone operators, according to the Association of Telephone, Cable Television and Internet Subscribers (ATCIS).

“While we understand that the industry is facing challenges, including increasing operational costs and the need to invest in infrastructure, we believe that this increase places an undue burden on consumers, many of whom are already struggling to cope with the current economic situation,” said Sina Bilesanmi, National President of ATCIS.

The statement comes as telecom operators, under the aegis of the Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), have sought approval from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) for a 40% increase in voice and data rates. The tariff adjustment is expected to help them cope with rising operational costs, especially diesel. ATCIS says, however, that “this does not justify an increase in tariffs.”