Telephone subscribers in Nigeria are set to pay more for data and airtime as the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) on Monday approved a 50% tariff increase for telecom operators.

In a statement, NCC spokesman Reuben Muoka explained that the increase, though lower than the over 100% hike requested by some network providers, was necessary to ensure the sustainability of the industry. He noted that this adjustment accounted for ongoing reforms aimed at improving services.

The regulator cited Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003, as the legal basis for approving the new rates. The adjustments, it stated, remain within the tariff bands outlined in the 2013 NCC Cost Study and will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis as per standard practice. The changes will adhere strictly to the NCC’s 2024 Guidance on Tariff Simplification.

“Tariff rates have remained static since 2013 despite rising operational costs for telecom operators. The approved adjustments aim to address the gap between these costs and current tariffs, ensuring the continued delivery of quality services,” the statement read. “Consumers can expect improved network quality, enhanced customer service, and greater coverage as operators invest in infrastructure and innovation.”

Acknowledging the financial burden on Nigerian households, the NCC urged operators to implement the changes transparently and educate the public on the new rates. Telecom companies were also directed to demonstrate measurable improvements in service delivery.

As of December 2023, Nigeria had over 224 million telecom subscribers. MTN leads the market with 87 million subscribers, representing 38.79% of the market share. Globacom and Airtel each have approximately 61 million subscribers, while 9mobile has 13.9 million users.