Nigerian telecommunications companies have formally submitted a proposal to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) for a 100% increase in their tariffs. This move comes in response to escalating operational costs, including inflation and higher service delivery expenses.
MTN Nigeria’s CEO, Karl Toriola, shared the proposal during an interview with Arise TV on Thursday. He explained that the tariff increase is crucial for the sustainability of the telecom industry, which has been under significant financial strain due to rising operational costs.
However, Toriola expressed doubt over whether the NCC will approve such a significant hike. He acknowledged that the proposed increase might be challenging to approve given the current economic challenges faced by the country. “I doubt they’re going to approve that quantum of increases because they are very, very sensitive to the current economic situation in the country,” Toriola remarked.
He emphasized that telecom operators, regulators, and policymakers are aligned in their concerns about the industry’s sustainability and the broader economic impact. Toriola highlighted the importance of a stable telecom sector, noting that without it, the wider economy and the well-being of citizens could suffer.