The Concerned Citizens Forum (CCF) has expressed support for the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) in the wake of public backlash over the recent adjustments in telecommunications tariffs by network operators.

Speaking at a press conference held in Abuja on, the National President of the group, Opialu Fabian
described the tariff adjustments as a necessary step to sustain the telecom sector and safeguard its long-term viability.

The CCF clarified misconceptions about the NCC’s role in the tariff increase, emphasizing that the commission acted in accordance with its statutory mandate under the Nigerian Communications Act of 2003. According to the group, the NCC is tasked with regulating tariffs to balance the interests of telecom operators, consumers, and the industry at large.

“The NCC’s primary obligation is to establish a sustainable telecommunications environment that encourages innovation, inclusion, and consumer protection. The tariff adjustment aligns with these goals,” the group said.

The CCF highlighted the economic pressures facing telecom operators, including inflation, naira devaluation, surging energy costs, and rising expenses for imported telecom equipment. The group noted that despite these challenges, telecom tariffs in Nigeria had remained unchanged since 2013.

“In light of these financial strains, the NCC approved a modest adjustment capped at 50%, significantly lower than the over 100% increment initially requested by operators,” the forum explained.

The CCF argued that the tariff adjustment was critical to ensuring operators’ financial stability, which would enable them to improve infrastructure, enhance service quality, and expand network coverage to underserved and rural areas.

The forum stressed that the adjustments were not solely to address operators’ challenges but also to benefit consumers and support Nigeria’s digital economy. Improved service quality, greater network reliability, and increased connectivity in rural areas were cited as some of the expected outcomes.

“Consumers will enjoy better value for their money, while operators will have the resources to invest in critical infrastructure and innovation,” the CCF noted.

The group also commended the NCC’s efforts to ensure transparency by requiring operators to educate the public about the new rates and offer affordable service plans tailored to different income levels.

The CCF pointed out that tariff adjustments are a standard regulatory practice globally to reflect market realities and sustain industry growth. It lauded the NCC for aligning Nigeria’s telecom industry with international best practices, strengthening the country’s position in the global telecommunications landscape.

“The NCC’s focus on supporting local suppliers and fostering economic opportunities for Nigerians aligns with national goals of self-reliance and economic growth,” the forum added.

Furthermore, the forum commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for its commitment to economic reforms and digital inclusivity, which have created an enabling environment for the telecom sector to thrive.

“The NCC’s decision to approve the tariff adjustments aligns with the administration’s broader objectives of driving economic growth and innovation,” the CCF said.

The group called on all stakeholders, including operators, consumers, and the media, to support the NCC in its efforts to build a robust and inclusive telecommunications ecosystem.

The Concerned Citizens Forum also commended the NCC for its leadership and patriotic commitment to ensuring the sustainability of Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.

“The recent tariff adjustments represent a balanced approach that considers the interests of operators, consumers, and the economy. Together, we can build a stronger, more inclusive telecommunications sector that will drive national development,” the forum concluded.