NATCOMS (The National Association of Telecoms Subscribers) has expressed strong objections to the planned increase, citing the current economic hardship faced by Nigerians.
Nigerian telecommunications subscribers (NATCOMS) are vehemently opposing a proposed 40% hike in telecom service tariffs, slated to take effect in 2025.
The association argues that the proposed hike would be insensitive and burdensome, given the already high cost of living in the country.
They urge telecom operators to explore alternative solutions to address rising operational costs, rather than passing the burden to consumers.
Proposed Tariff Hikes According to NATCOMS;
– Voice calls: N11.00 to N15.40 per minute
– Short message services: N4.00 to N5.60
– 1 GB data bundle: N1,000 to N1,400
NATCOMS considers the decision by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to approve the tariff hike as being against public interest.
The association believes that the increment would price telecom services out of reach for many citizens.
Telecom operators, however, argue that they have not increased tariffs in over a decade and face significant operational costs due to multiple levies and dollarization of equipment costs.
The Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) has demanded an immediate review of telecom tariffs to prevent an imminent shutdown of the sector.
The controversy surrounding the proposed tariff hike comes amid reports that the NCC has denied approving a fresh telecoms tariff hike for 2025.
The situation remains uncertain, with subscribers and operators awaiting further developments.
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