Nigeria has announced a 50% hike in mobile phone and data tariffs, marking a significant rise in the cost of telecommunications services in the country. The increase, approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), comes at a time when the country is facing one of its most severe cost-of-living crises in decades, with inflation at a near 30-year high of 34.8%.
The NCC stated that the decision to raise tariffs was made in response to prevailing market conditions, noting that mobile tariffs in Africa’s fourth-largest economy had remained unchanged since 2013. Despite proposals from telecommunications companies for a 100% tariff increase due to rising operational costs, operators ultimately agreed to the government’s 50% proposal.
This tariff hike adds to the financial strain on Nigerians, many of whom are already struggling with the impact of high inflation and increased living costs. The telecommunications sector, crucial to Nigeria’s economy and digital transformation, faces mounting pressure as it navigates economic challenges.
The increase is expected to affect millions of Nigerians who rely on mobile phones and data for communication, work, and access to services. The decision also highlights the broader economic difficulties facing the country, as it grapples with inflationary pressures and the need to balance industry sustainability with consumer affordability.
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