MTN Nigeria has submitted a proposal to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) requesting a 100% increase in its service tariffs, including call and data charges. The announcement was made by the company’s Chief Executive Officer, Karl Toriola, during an interview on Arise TV on Thursday.
Toriola expressed doubts about the proposal’s approval, citing the sensitive economic conditions in the country. He acknowledged that while the request has been made, the NCC may be reluctant to approve such a significant increase due to the current financial struggles faced by many Nigerians.
The proposed hike follows increasing discussions within the telecommunications sector, with the Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Gbenga Adebayo, recently warning of a possible shutdown unless tariffs are increased. However, telecom subscribers have expressed strong opposition to any rise in service charges.