By NIyi Jacobs
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has issued a strong statement following the Nigerian Communications Commission’s (NCC) approval of a 50% telecommunications tariff adjustment, emphasizing that the increase must lead to significant and measurable improvements in service delivery.
Acknowledging the financial pressures on telecom operators due to rising operational costs, the FCCPC commended the NCC for adopting a balanced approach that prioritizes both industry sustainability and consumer protection. By approving a 50% increase—significantly lower than the over 100% hike initially proposed—the NCC demonstrated a commitment to cushioning the impact on consumers while ensuring clarity and transparency in tariff structures.
The FCCPC welcomed the directive requiring telecom operators to eliminate hidden charges, disclose all tariff details upfront, and provide consumers with comprehensive information on costs, validity periods, and service inclusions. These measures aim to empower consumers to make informed decisions without the fear of unexpected charges.
However, the FCCPC underscored the non-negotiable need for the tariff hike to translate into tangible benefits for consumers. Persistent issues such as network congestion, dropped calls, erratic internet speeds, and poor customer service must be addressed. Operators are urged to allocate increased revenues towards infrastructure development and improved service delivery, ensuring the adjustments result in visible enhancements to network reliability, speed, and customer satisfaction.
The recently signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the FCCPC and NCC serves as a unified framework to monitor the implementation of the tariff adjustment. The agreement underscores a shared commitment to consumer protection, fair competition, and the eradication of exploitative practices in the telecommunications sector.
The FCCPC reassured the public of its resolve to oversee compliance with regulatory standards and urged consumers to report any unfair practices through official channels. “We remain committed to ensuring that the benefits of a thriving telecommunications ecosystem are felt by all stakeholders, particularly consumers,” the statement concluded.
