<p>In the wake of the 50 per cent increase approved by the Federal Government for telecom services, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, <a href="http://fccpc.gov.ng" target="_blank" rel="noopener">FCCPC</a>, has warned service providers like MTN, Glo, Airtel and others to ensure improved service delivery to their customers. This was contained in a press release signed by the commission’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu.</p> 
<p>The commission noted that consumers have consistently expressed the desire for measurable improvements in the quality of service before any tariff increases are implemented. To that effect, the telcos need to ensure that issues that have plagued their service delivery are resolved.</p> 
<p>“<em>Issues such as network congestion, dropped calls, inconsistent internet speeds, unusual data depletion, and poor customer service have remained prevalent concerns. It is, therefore, crucial that tariff adjustments directly translate into demonstrable and tangible service enhancements for consumers</em>,” the commission said.</p> 
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<p>The consumer protection watchdog also referred to the Memorandum of Understanding, MoU, recently signed between the it and the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC. The commission noted that the MoU highlights a shared commitment to ensuring robust consumer protection, fair competition, and the eradication of exploitative practices in the telecommunications sector. </p> 
<p>Thus, it reinforces the principle that any regulatory or pricing adjustment must balance the sustainability of the industry with the interests of consumers.</p> 
<p>“<em>It is non-negotiable that telecom operators must prioritise visible and measurable improvements in network reliability, speed, accessibility, and customer service as part of any tariff adjustment. The rationale for the increase must be reflected in better services for consumers who rely on telecommunications for both personal and business purposes</em>,” the commission said.</p> 
<h4 id="fccpc-calls-for-accountability-by-telcos" class="wp-block-heading">FCCPC calls for accountability by telcos</h4> 
<p>On Monday, January 20, <a href="https://technext24.com/2025/01/20/ncc-approves-telecom-increase-for-calls-sms-data/#google_vignette">the NCC approved a 50 pe cent tariff increase</a> for calls, text and internet data. This came after months of debate into the matter. The debate began with telecom operators who called bemoaned the harsh business conditions of the country, insisting that the only way they could survive is more than 100 pe cent increase in tariffs.</p> 
<p>This was countered by telecom subscribers under the aegis of the Association of Telephone, Cable TV, and Internet Subscribers of Nigeria, ATCIS, who insisted that the maximum increment that would be acceptable by consumers is 10 per cent. This was after the Minister of Communications, Dr Bosun Tijani had hinted at a 60 per cent hike. </p> 
<p>The government would eventually settle for 50 per cent with the NCC stating that tariff rates have remained static since 2013, despite the increasing costs of operation faced by telecom operators.</p> 
<p>The FCCPC, in its statement, acknowledged the economic pressures faced by telecom operators, including increasing operational costs. It also lauded the NCC for finding a balance between service providers and subscribers, noting that the 50 per cent adjustment, which is lower than the over 100 per cent increase initially proposed by operators, demonstrates a thoughtful effort to balance industry sustainability with consumer protection.</p> 
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<p>The commission also expressed its support for the NCC’s stance that operators should henceforth ensure that tariffs are clear, straightforward, and free of hidden charges or complexities. </p> 
<p>“<em>Operators are now required to disclose all key details upfront, including the cost, validity period, and the specific inclusions of a plan. Consumers can also expect a mandatory disclosure table from their service providers, enabling them to make informed decisions without worrying about unexpected charges or surprises</em>,” the commission said.</p> 
<p>It also tasked MTN, Airtel, Glo and other network operators to allocate increased revenues responsibly, with an emphasis on infrastructure development and service delivery improvements. Clear mechanisms must be established to monitor how these funds are utilised, ensuring that consumers directly benefit from the adjustments.</p> 
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<p>Finally, operators are directed to clearly communicate the rationale for the tariff adjustments to consumers. This includes ensuring that consumers are fully informed about the nature of the changes, their benefits, and how they align with efforts to improve service delivery and infrastructure.</p> 
<p>“<em>We are committed to closely monitoring the impact of these tariff adjustments to ensure compliance with established regulatory standards. Operators are reminded that the FCCPC is actively working with NCC to address concerns that may be raised by consumer during this transition period and beyond</em>,” the statement reads.</p> 
<p>The commission also encouraged consumers to report any unfair practices or concerns through its official channels to ensure effective resolution.</p> 
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50% tariff increase: FCCPC warns MTN, Airtel, Glo against poor network, data depletion, etc

Technext.ng

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