By The federal government has approved a 60% increase in telecom tariffs, marking a significant rise in the cost of mobile services across Nigeria.
Dr. Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and the Digital Economy, announced the new rates during a stakeholders meeting with Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) in Abuja on January 8th.
These new rates reflect long-standing demands from the service providers, according to sources.
Under the new pricing structure, phone calls will increase from ₦11 to ₦18.33 per minute, SMS from ₦4 to ₦6.67, and 1GB of data from ₦287.50 to ₦479.17.
These adjustments come as Nigerians battle with high inflation and rising living costs, making communication and internet usage more expensive.
The tariff hike has sparked varied reactions online.
A user, MOnwuchekwaa, commented on X, “At this point, these network service providers have to bring back the ‘please call me’ service. @MTNNG @AirtelNigeria and @GloWorld, please take note of this pertinent request. Una own no go spoil o.”
Another user stated, “It is long overdue. Inflation has caught up with a lot of things, call and data inclusive.”
Aitfacts added, “We are fully prepared for it. Nothing is free in Freetown. If Nigeria is to be great, sacrifices must be made by the citizens. Unfortunately, we want change at no cost to us. What Nigeria needs is an attitudinal change from the masses. We complain about everything.”
Kollinrovers also added, stating, “If you don’t have money to buy airtime and data, drop your phone. It won’t be a bad thing.”
The increase in tariffs is likely to lead many Nigerians to change their communication habits, with some opting for internet-based platforms like WhatsApp.
However, those without access to smartphones may find it more difficult to stay connected due to the higher costs.
Additionally, businesses that rely on mobile services may experience increased operating expenses, further straining the economy.
