Telcos Await NCC’s Determination Document To Guide Tariff Adjustments

Telecoms companies, under the aegis of the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) have expressed anticipation for the official Determination document from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), which is expected to outline detailed guidelines for implementing the newly approved 50 per cent tariff adjustment.

This follows the NCC’s announcement on Monday approving the adjustment, a decision attributed to escalating operational costs and the need to sustain the telecom industry. The move is rooted in the Commission’s regulatory authority under Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003.

ATCON president, Tony Izuagbe Emoekpere, emphasised the importance of the document in guiding operators and stakeholders on the execution of the adjustments.

“While the approved tariff adjustment, capped at a maximum of 50 per cent, does not fully address the operators’ request for a 100 per cent increase, we understand that this is a step towards bridging the gap between operational costs and revenues,” Emoekpere said. He added that the adjustment would enable operators to continue investing in infrastructure, expand coverage, and improve service quality.

ATCON reassured Nigerians that the tariff adjustments would ultimately benefit consumers, as operators are committed to reinvesting additional revenues into enhancing network quality, expanding digital access, and delivering better customer experiences.

The association highlighted that despite inflation, exchange rate volatility, and rising costs, telecom tariffs in Nigeria have remained static for over a decade. These challenges, coupled with substantial investment demands, have placed immense financial pressure on operators, threatening the sustainability of a sector critical to Nigeria’s digital economy.

ATCON also acknowledged NCC’s efforts to balance the interests of operators and consumers and called for continued open engagement to address ongoing challenges affecting operational efficiency.

The telecommunications sector, ATCON noted, remains committed to contributing to national development and economic growth through sustained investment and improved connectivity for Nigerians.