Price increases for data plans have been announced by MTN and Airtel, two of Nigeria’s largest providers.
Telecommunication Customers become aware of the adjustments beginning on or about September 28, 2022
There are concerns that the new tariffs may harm Nigerians who already face a high cost of living. Over time, Nigerians have benefited from having one of the most affordable data prices in Africa, which has increased the number of active internet subscriptions to over 152 million.
According to Punch, Nigeria’s National Broadband Plan 2020–2025, which calls for the Federal Government to provide more affordable internet services nationwide, is currently in jeopardy due to the upward revision of data rates.
Why have data prices risen?
Telecommunications firms will have a challenging year in 2022 as a result of rising inflation and the naira’s sharp decline against the dollar on the black market. The Association of Licensed Telecommunication Operators of Nigeria recently highlighted a number of issues, including the price of diesel and difficulties getting dollars for its services.
In fact, the group suggested a 40% increase in response to a 40% increase in the cost of doing business in a letter to the Nigerian Communications Commission.
The letter read:
“Given the state of the economy and the circa 40 per cent increase in the cost of doing business, we wish to request for an interim administrative review of the mobile (voice) termination rate for voice; administrative data floor price, and cost of SMS as reflected in extant instruments.”
In a related event, telecom associations and firms opposed the imposition of excise taxes on the industry at a meeting with the federal government. To increase revenue for the federal government, 5% excise fees are now expected from telecom consumers. According to information received, the choice was required given the recent situation of the nation’s economy.
