The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has given assurance to Nigerians that the recent adjustments in mobile tariffs are meant to improve service quality and support long-term growth in the country’s telecommunications industry.
Speaking in Abuja during a media briefing, the Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Wada Maida—represented by Acting Director of Public Affairs, Nnenna Ukoha—noted that the changes in mobile network charges are a strategic response to ongoing economic challenges, especially those tied to foreign exchange fluctuations. He explained that the tariff increase is already helping telecom operators regain financial balance after experiencing serious losses over the past few years.
“About two years ago, some major operators were recording significant losses. Although revenues were increasing, heavy forex-related obligations wiped out much of the gains, which directly impacted service quality,” Dr. Maida explained.
According to him, the return to profitability now allows network providers to invest more in their infrastructure. This, he said, will soon lead to better call quality, faster internet services, and overall improved user experience across the country. He added that by 2025, the level of investment in the telecom sector is expected to exceed what was recorded in the past two years.
On how the new tariff was decided, Dr. Maida noted that the NCC uses a clear and data-based process. Telecom operators are required to submit detailed cost breakdowns before any tariff changes are approved. This approach ensures that prices remain fair, based on actual operating costs, and reflect real market conditions.
While consumers are not directly involved in the pricing process due to its technical nature, Dr. Maida stressed that the Commission is firmly committed to protecting users’ interests through careful review of all proposals from service providers.
He also spoke about some of the broader issues affecting the industry, such as damage to fibre cables, high electricity costs, challenges with verifying subscriber identities, and vandalism of telecom installations. According to him, the NCC is working closely with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and other government bodies to tackle these problems.
“We are committed to naming and shaming perpetrators and are working with the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation to ensure that cases of infrastructure damage are fully prosecuted,” he stated.
Dr. Maida further noted that telecom infrastructure is now seen as critical national infrastructure and is protected under the country’s national security plans, coordinated by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA). He warned that anyone found damaging telecom facilities will face legal consequences.
The NCC also pledged to continue engaging with stakeholders and sharing accurate information on pricing and industry performance.
“It is not the public’s responsibility to monitor operator pricing. That’s our mandate,” Dr. Maida concluded. “We remain open to collaboration and will continue to share reliable data on telecom tariffs and performance metrics.”
