After getting the Federal Government’s nod to hike telephone services tariff by 50 per cent, operators including 9mobile and Airtel have pledged improved telecoms services.
The telecoms industry had advocated for a substantial tariff review to combat surging operational costs, driven by inflation, skyrocketing energy prices, and a currency devaluation exceeding 300 per cent. While the industry’s initial request called for a larger increase of up to 100 per cent, the NCC’s approval of a 50 per cent adjustment represented a balanced approach to safeguarding affordability for consumers while addressing industry sustainability concerns.
9mobile’s CEO, Obafemi Banigbe, emphasised that the tariff adjustment will enable telecom operators to reinvest in critical infrastructure upgrades and capacity expansion – both of which have been delayed due to financial constraints.
“This tariff adjustment is timely and essential,” Banigbe stated. “It allows operators to fulfil obligations and capital commitments necessary for future growth. Without this, the industry risked a decline in service quality due to insufficient funding. With this change, we are better positioned to drive innovation, growth, and enhanced connectivity for Nigerians.”
Banigbe further noted that the increase provides a much-needed boost for 9mobile’s ongoing business transformation. This includes modernising network infrastructure, expanding coverage, and improving digital platforms for faster and more reliable connectivity. “This decision enables us to replace outdated equipment, expand our network to underserved areas, and enhance the overall customer experience,” he added.
According to him, the tariff adjustment is a strategic measure to bridge the funding gap exacerbated by rising operational expenses, many of which are denominated in foreign currency.
He said these challenges have strained telecom operators, limiting their ability to reinvest and driving up debt levels. The new pricing structure provides a pathway to financial stability while ensuring the delivery of top-tier services to millions of Nigerians.
On his part, the CEO of Airtel, Dinesh Balsingh, who expressed the company’s appreciation of the decision to allow for a tariff increase of up to 50 per cent across services, stated that the development underscores the regulator’s commitment to fostering sustainability and enhancing investment in the telecommunications industry for superior service delivery.
According to him, “the tariff adjustment reflects a balanced approach to ensuring the sustainability of the telecommunications sector while safeguarding the interests of consumers,” adding that “the price increase which was highly needed for the survival and continued growth of the industry, will enable us to continue investing in network infrastructure, expanding coverage, and delivering improved products and services that meet the evolving needs of our customers.”
He said Airtel Nigeria remained committed to its mission of bridging the digital divide by offering reliable and affordable telecommunications services. With Nigeria’s vibrant economy and dynamic population, the company believes the decision by NCC creates an environment conducive to innovation and growth, benefiting consumers and the industry alike.
SOURCE: The Guardian