Rotimi Amaechi
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Association of Telephone Cable TV and Internet Subscribers of Nigeria (ATCIS) have jointly denied reports of an impending telecom tariff increase in January 2025.
This move aims to alleviate the anxiety and uncertainty sparked by recent rumours of a 40% tariff hike.According to Prince Sina Bilesanmi, National President of ATCIS-Nigeria, the reports are entirely false and should be disregarded.
The NCC has also corroborated this stance, with its Director of Public Affairs, Dr. Reuben Mouka, emphasizing that any tariff adjustments would follow due process and involve input from all stakeholders, including ATCIS.The Telecom Activist & National President of ATCIS-Nigeria, Prince Sina Bilesanmi, condemned the rumour, insisting that there was nothing like that for now.Bilesanmi spoke during an Urgent Press Conference with Top Journalists on Monday, December 30th, 2024 in Lagos.
The rumoured tariff hike would have seen call rates increase to ₦15.40 per minute, SMS charges rise to ₦5.60 per message, and 1GB of data cost ₦1,400, up from the current ₦1,000.
However, with the NCC and ATCIS dismissing these claims, subscribers can breathe a sigh of relief – for now.It’s worth noting that telecom operators have been pushing for a tariff hike, citing rising operational costs, inflation, and the depreciation of the naira.
The National Association of Telecommunications Subscribers (NATCOMS) has proposed a marginal 10% increase instead of the rumored 40% hike.As the situation unfolds, subscribers will be keeping a close eye on any developments. One thing is certain – the NCC and ATCIS will ensure that any tariff adjustments are made with the interests of subscribers in mind.
