By Abubakar Yunusa
MTN Nigeria says the approval of a 50 percent tariff adjustment for telecommunications companies (telcos) will go a long way to improving the country’s critical infrastructure and services.
In a statement yesterday signed by Uto Ukpanah, the company secretary, and published on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX), MTN Nigeria said the adjustment will empower millions of people and businesses and contribute to the country’s overall economic development.
On December 30, 2024, the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) warned that its members might begin shedding services if urgent action is not taken to review tariffs, as the Nigerian telecommunications industry is facing critical challenges.
Also, on January 1, the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) asked the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to review call tariffs upwards by the first quarter of 2025.
Two days later, Karl Toriola, the chief executive officer (CEO) of MTN Nigeria, said telcos wanted a 100 percent increase in tariffs.
However, on January 20, the NCC approved a 50 percent tariff increase — the first hike in 12 years.
Addressing the adjustment, MTN Nigeria said it is a “significant milestone in ensuring the long-term sustainability of the telecoms industry, supporting the country’s critical infrastructure and services”.
On his part, Toriola said the tariff increase represents an important step towards addressing the impacts of the prevailing economic challenges on the business and industry.
“We deeply appreciate the Federal Government of Nigeria, the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, the NCC and our industry bodies for their continued support in ensuring the telecoms sector remains sustainable,” he said.
“This tariff adjustment represents an important step towards addressing the impacts of the prevailing economic challenges on our business and industry.
“It will enable us to maintain the critical investments required to deliver reliable, high-quality services to Nigerians.”
Toriola said the company remains committed to supporting Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda and driving inclusive growth for all stakeholders.
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