The Association of Telecommunication Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) has expressed support for the Federal Government’s approval of an increase in call and data tariffs. The move also includes plans to invest in Nigeria’s telecom infrastructure.
In a statement on Thursday, ATCON President Tony Emoekpere welcomed the tariff hike, calling it a necessary, though delayed, step. He noted that the increase, while significant at 100%, is not as drastic as it could have been had the decision been postponed further. The adjustment is expected to take effect in the first quarter of 2025.
Emoekpere praised the government’s commitment to investing in telecom infrastructure, calling it essential for sector growth. He emphasized that government involvement in telecom infrastructure would mirror global best practices, ultimately enhancing sector performance and protecting the infrastructure from vandalism.
“Telecommunications is a critical national infrastructure. Governments in other countries invest in it, and this move by Nigeria will boost the sector,” Emoekpere stated.
Dr. Bosun Tijan, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, confirmed that the tariff hike would not reach the full 100% as initially requested by telecom operators. The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) will soon release the new tariffs to the public.
The decision underscores the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s telecom sector, which is key to the country’s economic growth.