By Chinenye Anuforo
Following the Nigerian Communications Commission’s (NCC) approval of a 50% increase in telecoms tariffs, the Nigeria Internet Group (NIG) has demanded that this adjustment translate into significantly better service quality.
In a recent statement, NIG President, Destiny Amana, urged the NCC and telecom operators to reinvest the revenue generated from the tariff hike into expanding networks and upgrading infrastructure to enhance service delivery.
According to him, NIG acknowledges the recent announcement by the NCC allowing telecommunications operators to increase tariffs by 50 per cent starting next month. But while we recognize the economic realities that may have necessitated this decision, it is imperative that this increase translates into a significant and measurable improvement in service delivery. At present, service levels across all networks have been deplorable—with poor signal quality, frequent call drops, and unreliable data services becoming the norm rather than the exception.
“If this tariff increase is to be accepted by the public and stakeholders, it must come with a clear commitment from telcos to improve service quality. The NCC, as the industry watchdog, must also ensure strict compliance and transparency, ensuring that no unscrupulous practices are introduced that further burden consumers without corresponding benefits.
“The Nigeria Internet supports the tariff increase only if here is a measurable and enforced improvement in service quality—better call
connectivity, stronger signals, and faster, more stable internet speeds; if NCC actively monitors and holds operators accountable for meeting set quality standards, including network uptime, speed, and customer satisfaction metrics; and if consumers are protected from exploitative pricing tactics, ensuring that telcos justify the increased costs with tangible network improvements.
If these conditions are not met, this increase will be seen as an unjustified burden on Nigerian consumers and businesses,” Amana said in a statement he issued recently.
He urged the NCC to ensure that telcos prioritize service excellence and that the funds generated from the adjustment are reinvested into network expansion, quality enhancements, and infrastructure development, while reiterating the commitment of NIG in advocating for a thriving digital economy where Nigerians have access to affordable, reliable, and high-quality internet services.