Reports from Abuja have indicated that Nigerians may pay a new telecom tariff in the new year that would affect calls, data and SMS.
Execuitve Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, Dr Aminu Maida, is set to unveil a new tariff plan for the telecom sector from December 13, 2024.
Maida made this announcement during an interactive session with the media in Abuja.
The new tariff plan may lead to an upward change in the cost of calls, data and SMS.
The plan, according to the NCC, is aimed at simplifying tariff structures and improving consumer experience across the country.
The EVC was represented by the Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Mouka. He said that the earlier scheduled date for the revised tariff plan was 27 October.
He said that it was postponed to 14 December due to incomplete consultations with and among the stakeholders in the telecom industry.
“As of December 13, 2024, a new tariff plan will be unveiled. We have engaged stakeholders extensively to gather their insights and ensure robust contributions,” Maida stated.
The NCC boss however restated the commitment of the Commission to transparency and inclusive decision-making.
Meanwhile, the NCC, in a bid to streamline tariff offerings and foster fair competition, has directed telecom operators to streamline their tariff and promotional plans to a maximum of seven.
The directive was aimed at simplifying choices for consumers, enhance transparency in pricing, and safeguard consumer interests from misleading promotions.
Dr. Maida emphasised: “With this measure, telecom consumers will benefit from clearer pricing structures and misconceptions surrounding data and airtime usage will be minimised.
The NCC has been actively conducting awareness campaigns through various media channels to educate consumers about these changes.
Addressing widespread concerns about data depletion, Dr. Maida referenced an audit conducted by NCC which revealed significant misconceptions among users regarding data consumption patterns, particularly across different types of Android devices.
He stressed the importance of public education to empower consumers with accurate information on optimising their data usage.
Furthermore, the NCC has mandated all licensed telecom operators to update their contact details by 9 January, 2025, in compliance with the Licensing Regulations 2019.
Mr. Muoka stated that adherence to these regulations is crucial to enhancing regulatory oversight and bolstering the integrity of the telecom sector.
He warned operators of potential penalties, including fines, suspension, or revocation of licenses, for non-compliance.
As the implementation date approaches, Nigerians should be preparing for potential impacts on their communication expenses.
It would be recalled that the NCC issued a directive, titled “Guidance on the Simplification of Tariffs in the Nigerian Communications Sector,” on tariff increase in July this year.
The directive was issued on July 29, 2024. It mandates Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to publish a comprehensive table showing the features of their tariff plans and bundle offers.
According to the directive, the table should contain all necessary information for subscribers to make informed decisions, including details on add-ons, their prices, how consumers can opt in or out, terms and conditions for renewal, and rollover policies.
