“Consumers Bear the Burden as NCC Approves Controversial Tariff Adjustment 

Static Tariffs, Rising Costs, and the Consumer Burden

Telecom tariff rates have remained unchanged since 2013, despite escalating operational costs fueled by inflation, foreign exchange instability, and rising energy expenses. According to the NCC, these adjustments aim to bridge the widening gap between service costs and revenue while ensuring the quality of service delivery is not compromised. However, consumer advocates argue that the financial pressures on Nigerian households, already strained by a tough economic climate, were not given enough weight in the decision.

FCCPC’s Role Under Scrutiny

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has come under fire for its perceived silence on the matter. Observers claim that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the FCCPC and NCC may have diluted the former’s oversight, effectively allowing operators and the NCC to push through the price hike with limited consumer input.

Stakeholders argue that the FCCPC should have played a more proactive role in ensuring consumer protection during the consultation process. Instead, its apparent inaction has raised questions about its commitment to safeguarding the interests of millions of telecom subscribers across the country.

Promises of Improved Services: Reality or Rhetoric?

The NCC insists that the tariff adjustments will empower operators to invest in infrastructure, expand network coverage, and enhance service quality. Better customer service, broader connectivity, and improved network reliability are among the projected benefits. However, critics are skeptical, citing a history of similar promises that failed to materialize.

Consultations and Stakeholder Engagement

The NCC has emphasized that the tariff adjustments followed extensive consultations with stakeholders from both the public and private sectors. The Commission also points out that the new rates fall within the tariff bands outlined in its 2013 Cost Study and align with its recently issued 2024 Guidance on Tariff Simplification.

Despite these assurances, many consumers feel left out of the process. For them, the adjustment represents yet another financial burden imposed without meaningful input or transparency.

Balancing Industry Sustainability and Consumer Welfare

The NCC has positioned this adjustment as a necessary step to ensure the long-term sustainability of Nigeria’s telecommunications sector. The Commission highlights the importance of supporting indigenous vendors, suppliers, and other ecosystem players who depend on a thriving telecom industry.

Yet, this narrative has done little to ease consumer frustration. Many believe the NCC’s focus on sustainability has disproportionately favoured operators at the expense of consumers, who are now expected to fund the sector’s survival through higher tariffs.

A Call for Accountability

As the adjustments take effect, consumer advocacy groups are calling for greater accountability from both the NCC and telecom operators. They demand measurable improvements in service delivery, transparency in billing practices, and regular updates on how the additional revenue is being utilized to benefit subscribers and if operators default in their service, what consumer should do.

Consumers at a Crossroads

The NCC’s decision underscores the delicate balance between industry growth and consumer protection. While the adjustments may stabilize the sector, they have left many Nigerians feeling unheard and undervalued. Moving forward, robust oversight, genuine stakeholder engagement, and demonstrable improvements in service quality will be crucial in rebuilding public trust and ensuring the telecom sector works for all.

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