Telecom Tariff Increase to Be Capped at 60%, Says Minister Bosun Tijani

Telecom Tariff Increase to Be Capped at 60%, Says Minister Bosun Tijani-OXYGIST

The Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, has assured Nigerians that the proposed increase in telecom tariffs will not exceed 60%.


Speaking during an interview on Politics Today, a Channels Television program, Tijani stated that any approved hike would range between 30% and 60%, emphasizing that a 100% increase is off the table.


“I think they should only increase by not more than anywhere between 30 to 60 percent,” Tijani said.


The minister explained that such a substantial increase would negatively impact Nigerians and hinder the country’s economic growth. The government’s priority, he noted, is to maintain a balance between sustainability and affordability.


“We’re asking difficult questions, like whether we can increase local content in the telecom sector. This means reducing the volume of imports that require costly foreign exchange,” he explained.


Tijani highlighted efforts already in place to support telecom operators and reduce their financial burdens:


  • Critical Infrastructure Designation: President Tinubu declared telecom infrastructure as critical national assets, discouraging vandalism and lowering repair costs for operators.

  • Tax Reforms: The government is working to harmonize taxes in the sector, reducing financial pressure while ensuring a balance between national revenue and corporate growth.

  • Strategic Investments: Nigeria is investing in 90,000 kilometers of fiber infrastructure and telecom towers in remote areas, enabling operators to expand their customer base without incurring high costs.


“These initiatives aim to enhance the telecom sector’s capacity, improve service quality, and extend connectivity to underserved regions,” Tijani added.

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