By Edwin Nwachukwu
THE COLLECTIVE MOVEMENT (TCM), a socio-political group, is saddened by the Federal Government’s plan to increase telecom tariffs and advises it to reconsider the plan.
The group stated this during a virtual meeting of its national leaders on Friday.
They noted that Nigerians are already facing economic challenges and that increasing telecom tariffs will further burden citizens, especially low-income households.
“Telecom services play an important role in connecting people, facilitating education, and providing access to essential services. A tariff hike may have negative social implications, particularly for vulnerable populations.
“The FG should provide clear justification and transparency regarding the need for a tariff hike by ensuring that any increases are fair, reasonable, and in the best interest of Nigerians.’’
TCM added that a tariff hike will contribute to inflation, explaining that telecom services are essential for businesses and individuals.
In a statement by its Director of Media, Edwin Nwachukwu, the group said that price increases would trickle down to other sectors, such as the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) which rely heavily on telecom services.
”A tariff hike will increase operational costs, and reduce productivity and competitiveness. Increased tariffs are to widen the digital divide, as marginalised communities may struggle to afford telecom services, thereby exacerbating existing social and economic inequalities.
”Rather than increasing tariffs, the government should explore alternative revenue streams, such as taxing multinational tech companies operating in Nigeria or investing in infrastructure development. The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) should also prioritise consumer protection and ensure that telecom operators do not exploit subscribers with excessive price increases.
The director quoted Collins Young, the National Coordinator of TCM, saying that “reliable and affordable telecom services are crucial for national security.
“A tariff hike will compromise the ability of security agencies to communicate and respond effectively to threats.’’
Young noted that tariff hikes may make Nigerian telecom services less competitive, driving businesses and investors to neighbouring countries while encouraging the government to develop a conscience for its citizens.
