*The Nigerian Communications Commission informs telecoms subscribers and Nigerians at large, that no tariff increase by the operators without due regulatory approval

Gbenga Kayode | 绿帽献妻

Against the backdrop of the telecoms companies’ (Telcos) recent agitation to effect a tariff hike, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has stated it monitored with keen interest the deluge of聽 the media reportage of the聽 Mobile Network Operators’ (MNOs) decision to increase tariffs of telecoms services as well as the fears being expressed by telecoms subscribers on the agitation.

绿帽献妻 reports the telecoms sector regulatory Commission said the demand being made by MNOs under the auspices of the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), citing high cost of running their operations as the major reason for their proposed tariff hike, was contained in a letter to the Commission.

Telecoms consumers

The NCC noted in line with international best practice and established regulatory procedures, the Commission ensures its regulatory activities are guided by regular cost-based and empirical studies to determine appropriate cost (upper and floor price) within which service providers are allowed to charge their subscribers for services delivered.

Dr. Ikechukwu Adinde, Director of Public Affairs (DPA) at NCC, Friday, May 6, 2022, stated the “Commission ensures that any cost determined, as an outcome of such transparent studies is fair enough as to enhance healthy competition among operators, provide wider choices for the subscribers as well as ensure sustainability of the Nigerian telecoms industry.”

Regulator committed to consumer protection –DPA

Adinde also said: “For the avoidance of any doubt, and contrary to MNOs’ agitation to increase tariffs for voice and Short Messaging Services (SMS) by a certain percentage, the Commission wishes to categorically inform telecoms subscribers and allay the fears of Nigerians that no tariff increase will be effected by the operators without due regulatory approval by the Commission.”

The regulator also stated it is noteworthy that tariff regulations and determinations are made by the Commission in line with the provisions of Sections 4, 90 and 92 of the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA) 2003.

The NCC restated that the regulatory instrument entrusts the Commission with the protection and promotion of the interests of telecoms consumers against unfair practices, including but not limited to matters relating to tariffs and charges.

It further noted: “The current tariff regime being administered by the service providers is a product of NCC’s determination both for voice and SMS in the past.”

The Commission, however, said while there could be justifiable reasons for MNOs’ demand for tariff increase, it should be noted that “they are not allowed to do such either individually or collectively without recourse to NCC, following the outcome of a cost study.”

“This is not the case for now,” the Director of Public Affairs declared.

He also stated through NCC’s commitment to engendering healthy competition among the licensees, the cost of services has been democratised and become more and more affordable for Nigerian subscribers.

“The regulator is even more committed to this cause to ensure subscribers get greater value for money spent on telecom services,” the NCC added.