Mobile Network Companies Propose 100% Tariff Increase
Mobile telecommunications companies in have proposed a 100 per cent increase in their tariffs, to government for approval.
The proposal, according to them is to address rising operational costs, including inflation and increased service delivery expenses.
The Chief Executive Officer of MTN Nigeria, Karl Toriola, made the disclosure during a live interview on an interview on television.
The CEO expressed that it is uncertain whether the Nigerian Communications Commission— the telecom regulator, will approve the proposal.
According to Toriola, the proposed tariff increase is necessary for the sustainability of the industry, which has been facing significant financial pressures.
We’ve put forward requests of approximately 100 per cent tariff increases to regulators. I doubt they’re going to approve that quantum of increases because they are very, very sensitive to the current economic situation in the country,” Toriola said.
Despite the challenges, Toriola expressed optimism that regulators would make the right decision, taking into account the realities of the sector.
The CEO emphasised that the focus is on ensuring the long-term sustainability of the industry, rather than short-term profitability.
I believe we’re all on the same side, the policymakers, the regulators, our Chairman of ALTON, Gbenga Adebayo, and the industry. We’re united because we share concerns about a few fundamental issues. First, human rights, are critical to driving any economy. Without a sustainable industry, the broader economy and the well-being of the people will be negatively impacted.”
