Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, has thrown his weight behind the recently announced 50% increase in telecom tariffs, urging operators to ensure improved service quality in return.
The tariff hike, announced by the Nigerian Communications Commission on Monday, marks the first adjustment in over a decade.
It aims to address rising operational costs and inflation, but the move has sparked debates nationwide.
Speaking on a live television programme on Thursday during the ongoing 2025 World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Edun described the adjustment as a necessary step to sustain the telecom sector.
“Inflation has increased, and it must be reflected in the business operations of telcos. While their prices are regulated, they cannot implement arbitrary tariffs.
“The rising cost of living must be considered, and I believe the 50 per cent tariff adjustment is just the starting point. It’s about compromise, timing, and sequencing these necessary changes,” Edun said.
He emphasised the challenges that telecom operators confront, such as exchange rate volatility, inflation, and the requirement for large investments to satisfy rising customer demands.
The long-term viability of the telecom industry, which plays a crucial role in Nigeria’s digital economy, is in jeopardy due to the significant burden these financial difficulties have placed on operators, he said.
The finance minister underscored the critical role of telecommunications in Nigeria’s infrastructure and business ecosystem, calling it essential to economic growth and innovation.
“The government expects the tariff adjustment to result in better call termination, fewer dropped calls, and overall improved service quality. We want telcos operating efficiently, terminating calls seamlessly, and delivering high-quality services.
“At the same time, we want them to foster innovation, create jobs, and contribute to GDP,” he said, underscoring the significance of striking a balance between consumer protection and creativity.
Edun gave Nigerians the assurance that the pricing hike would be reviewed on a regular basis to make sure it continues to be fair to operators and consumers alike.
“The government remains committed to fostering a thriving telecommunications sector that supports innovation, economic growth, and job creation,” he concluded.
The tariff adjustment has been widely discussed, with stakeholders urging the NCC and operators to ensure transparency and accountability in its implementation.
