Telecommunication giants, including MTN and Airtel, have submitted a proposal to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) seeking a 100% hike in tariffs.
The proposed adjustment aims to address surging operational costs fueled by inflation and rising service delivery expenses, according to MTN Nigeria's Chief Executive Officer, Karl Toriola. Speaking during an interview on Arise TV, Toriola emphasized the pressing need for the increase to ensure the sustainability of the telecom industry, which is grappling with significant financial challenges.
“We’ve put forward requests of approximately 100% tariff increases to regulators. 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 explained.
While acknowledging the potential hurdles in gaining regulatory approval, the CEO expressed optimism that the NCC would carefully consider the realities of the industry before making a decision.
The telecom sector has been pivotal in Nigeria’s digital transformation, and stakeholders hope that any adjustments will strike a balance between economic pressures and consumer affordability.
