Telecoms Operators in Nigeria are considering raising the prices of their services, which could lead to increased costs for calls and data for consumers. The Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Gbenga Adebayo, attributed the planned increase to the rise in the cost of operation.
Adebayo explained that the recent increase in fuel prices has had a significant impact on the operations of service providers, creating a burden on the network providers. In order to offset the rising cost of operation, including changes in electricity tariff and fuel prices, telecoms companies are engaging in discussions with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to review the prices of their services.
According to Adebayo, the prices of services are expected to reflect the cost of production, which includes factors such as the cost of energy, fuel, diesel, and transport. He emphasized that for the sustainability of the industry, the tariff charged to consumers needs to align with the production costs.
ALTON is working closely with the regulator, NCC, to follow the guidelines on tariff review. While no specific details about the extent of the price increase have been provided, it is anticipated that prices will be adjusted to reflect the current cost of operation in the telecommunications industry.
Consumers in Nigeria should prepare for the possibility of higher prices for calls and data as telecoms operators aim to offset their rising operational costs.
