Nigerian Minister Confirms Telecom Tariff Hike, Assures Minimal Increase.

The Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, has announced that Nigeria’s telecommunications tariffs will soon increase. However, he assured that the hike would not reach the 100% increase telecom operators are currently demanding.

Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting with Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) in Abuja on Wednesday, Tijani disclosed that the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is finalizing studies to determine the appropriate increase, which will soon be made public.

“Operators have been pushing for a 100% increase, but that won’t happen. The NCC is working to finalize a balanced directive that protects citizens while allowing operators to sustain their investments,” Tijani said.

The minister highlighted the government’s responsibility to create regulatory conditions that foster growth in the telecommunications sector while ensuring citizens receive quality service. He also noted that the federal government would take a more active role in infrastructure investment, which has traditionally been left to private companies.

“Infrastructure investments are critical for improving service delivery, and the government will not solely rely on private sector funding,” he stated.

Meanwhile, the Executive Vice-Chairman of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, added that the meeting addressed the industry’s sustainability. While no definitive percentage for the tariff hike was revealed, Maida assured that the decision would be transparent and Nigerians would be informed within weeks.

He also mentioned efforts to simplify billing by introducing uniform rates for voice calls, SMS, and data, eliminating confusing bonuses and rates.

Telecom operators like MTN and Airtel have been pressing the NCC for a tariff hike, citing the need for increased revenue to sustain operations. They have even threatened sector shutdowns if their demands are not met. On the other hand, subscribers have called on operators to explore alternatives to a tariff increase.

The discussions continue as the government aims to balance affordability, investment needs, and service quality for Nigerians.