FCCPC Insists Telecom Tariff Hike Must Deliver Tangible Service Improvements

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has responded to the Nigerian Communications Commission’s (NCC) recent approval of a 50% increase in telecommunications tariffs, emphasizing that the adjustment must result in significant improvements in service delivery. Ondaje Ijagwu, Director of Corporate Affairs at the FCCPC, affirmed the Commission’s commitment to prioritizing consumer interests amid the economic challenges faced by telecom operators.

Acknowledging the NCC’s measured approach, the FCCPC commended the Commission for resisting the initial proposals by telecom operators for over a 100% tariff hike, opting instead for a balanced 50% adjustment. The FCCPC also welcomed the NCC’s directive requiring operators to adopt transparent pricing structures and eliminate hidden charges. Operators must now provide clear, detailed information about tariffs, including costs, validity periods, and plan inclusions, enabling consumers to make informed decisions.

For years, Nigerian telecom users have voiced concerns about inadequate service quality, such as dropped calls, network congestion, erratic data depletion, and poor customer support. The FCCPC asserts that the tariff increase must directly address these issues, ensuring measurable improvements in network reliability, speed, and overall customer experience.

The recent Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the FCCPC and NCC further underscores their shared commitment to safeguarding consumer interests while supporting industry sustainability. The agreement establishes a unified framework for monitoring and regulating the tariff adjustment to prevent exploitative practices.

The FCCPC has urged operators to allocate the increased revenue toward infrastructure development and enhanced service delivery. It emphasized the need for transparency, requiring operators to communicate the rationale for the tariff adjustments, detailing the expected benefits to consumers.

As Nigeria increasingly relies on digital connectivity for personal and business activities, the FCCPC reiterated the importance of ensuring that the telecommunications ecosystem serves all stakeholders equitably. Consumers are encouraged to report any unfair practices or service deficiencies through the Commission’s official channels.

“The FCCPC will continue to work closely with the NCC to monitor compliance, resolve consumer concerns, and uphold the highest regulatory standards during this transition period and beyond,” said Ijagwu.

By linking tariff adjustments to tangible service enhancements, the FCCPC and NCC aim to create a fair, transparent, and accountable telecommunications sector that benefits consumers and operators alike.