Nigerians to Pay More for Calls, Data, SMS as NCC Approves New Tariffs: An Insensitive Move Amid Economic Hardship
In a rather surprising but equally sensational development, a move I’d like to label as most insensitive, the Nigerian Communications Commission has in its recent statement approved new tariffs for voice calls, data, and short messaging systems services for Telcom operators including the likes of MTN and Airtel. Coming at a time when these operators have been ‘pressuring’ for a tariff review, especially concerning the current economic collapse, the pertinence, and timing of these tariffs raise profound questions that cannot be stressed. Considering rising food prices and costs of living, this move seems incredibly insensitive. It is an open secret that as of 2024, telecom is not a luxury, and to many people, it's equivalent to water.
Amidst soaring food prices, escalating costs of living, and ongoing
widespread protests against economic hardships, the NCC's approval of higher
tariffs appears deeply insensitive. For many Nigerians, calls and data are not
a luxury, but an essential service for personal, educational, and economic
activities. Nearly everything everyone does these days depends on data, right?
Furthermore, the decision by this government agency poses a
significant threat to the growth of Nigeria's IT sector and the broader digital
economy. Higher costs for data services are likely to slow down internet
adoption, which currently stands at around 55%, according to
datareportal.com, stifle innovation, and limit opportunities for startups and
small businesses that rely on affordable internet access to thrive. In a
digital age where connectivity drives economic growth, making these services
more expensive is counterproductive.
As a tech entrepreneur, I am deeply invested in the
technological growth and economic well-being of Nigeria. The NCC's decision to
increase tariffs feels like an excessive blow to the millions of young Nigerians
already under tremendous economic pressure. Telecommunication should be a tool
for empowerment, not an added source of financial burden.
In conclusion, the NCC must reconsider this decision. There needs to be a more thoughtful and inclusive dialogue with
all stakeholders, including consumer advocacy groups and industry experts, to
find a balanced approach that protects consumers from undue financial strain
while ensuring the telecom industry remains viable and capable of delivering
high-quality services.
At a time when Nigerians are facing significant economic
challenges, regulatory bodies must prioritize the welfare of the people they
serve. It is essential to foster an environment where technology can enable
growth, innovation, and empowerment, rather than add to the hardships that young
Nigerians are facing daily.
Sobere Opusunju is a Tech entrepreneur dedicated to the
technological growth and economic development of Africa, especially Nigeria.
With extensive experience in the IT sector, Sobere advocates for policies that
support innovation, connectivity, and economic empowerment for all Nigerians.
Sobere is the founder of Innovation, Creativity, and Entrepreneurship
Summit [ICE SUMMIT AFRICA], a tech Startup in Africa.
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