Mobile operators seek NCC approval to increase tariffs amidst FOREX loses, high energy prices

Mobile operators in the country’s telecommunication including MTN Nigeria and Globacom have asked for Federal Government approval through the Nigerian Communications Commission to raise their tariff. The development came after foreign exchange losses and rising energy costs forced some operators to post losses last year. The telcos’ proposal to increase their tariffs came barely 24 hours after MultiChoice, a South African pay television company raised its tariff. Several companies including Discos and brewing companies have recently raised their prices. On Thursday, the telcos, under the aegis of the Association of Licensed Telecom Companies of Nigeria and the Association of Telecom Companies of Nigeria, issued a joint statement asking the government to expedite the approval. The telecom industry appears to be among the few sectors that have yet to review their prices despite the rising inflation in the country amid other economic challenges. They blamed this on the regulatory restraints that have been preventing them from pricing appropriately.