Subscribers Demand 10% Telecom Tariff Increase Instead of 50% Hike

• NATCOMS has called for a reduction of the recent 50% telecom tariff hike to a maximum of 10% for low-income Nigerians
• President Deolu Ogunbanjo criticized the NCC’s decision, stating it unfairly burdens consumers who depend on telecommunications for daily activities

The National Association of Telecommunications Consumers of Nigeria (NATCOMS) has urged the federal government to reduce the recent 50% hike in telecom tariffs to a maximum of 10%, citing concerns for low-income Nigerians.

In a statement, NATCOMS President Deolu Ogunbanjo criticized the Nigerian Communications Commission’s (NCC) decision, calling it an unfair burden on telecom consumers.

He argued that the increase would significantly impact millions of Nigerians who rely on telecommunications for daily activities.

Ogunbanjo accused the NCC of neglecting its responsibility to protect consumers from excessive profit-driven moves by telecom operators.

He suggested that service providers explore alternative funding options rather than imposing higher subscription costs.

“The operators have multiple ways to raise capital, including debt recovery and intra-industry debt settlements. Instead of placing a 50% tariff hike on subscribers, they should reinvest their previous profits to enhance service quality,” he stated.

He further recommended that telecom companies seek funding through bank loans, both locally and internationally, rather than shifting financial burdens onto consumers. “Businesses take loans to sustain operations. Why should telecom operators be any different?” he questioned.

Ogunbanjo warned that the tariff increase would have widespread negative effects.

• Small businesses relying on telecom services might shut down due to higher operational costs.
• Students who need internet access for academic work may struggle to afford data.
• Senior citizens who depend on telecom services to stay connected with family might face communication difficulties.
• Large businesses using telecom services would pass on the additional costs to consumers, increasing the cost of living.

In light of these concerns, NATCOMS appealed to the NCC to reconsider the decision and adopt a more reasonable 10% tariff hike.

The association emphasized that telecom operators should find alternative ways to raise funds instead of overburdening struggling consumers.

“The telecom sector is a private business. It should not place undue financial stress on Nigerians. Even if a tariff hike is necessary, a 10% increase is a more balanced approach,” Ogunbanjo concluded.