Nigeria's Communications Commission (NCC) has acknowledged receipt of a letter received from the Association of Licensed Telecommunication Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) requesting a 40% increase in the prices of certain telecom services. The proposal cannot be implemented at this time due to the need for a rigorous cost-based study and due process, according to the regulator.
“In accordance with international best practice and established regulatory procedures, the NCC ensures that its regulatory activities are guided by regular cost-based empirical studies to determine appropriate costs, (top price and floor price), within which service providers are permitted to charge their subscribers for the services provided,” a statement read.
Operators have begun mentioning a possible increase in the price of telecom services due to the increase in operating costs since mid-March. So, ALTON issued a letter to the NCC proposing a 40% increase in the cost of calls, texts, and data. There was significant opposition to the bill among telecommunications subscribers, primarily due to the economic problems they are facing at the moment.
The regulator reminds telecom operators that any rate increases must be presented first, even if there are justifiable reasons for the increase, “It should be noted that tariff regulations and decisions are made by the Commission in accordance with the provisions of Sections 4, 90, and 92 of the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA) 2003, which entrusts the commission with the protection and promotion of the interests of subscribers against unfair practices, including, but not limited to, issues relating to rates and charges.”
