The Nigerian Senate has urged the federal ministry of telecommunications and digital economy to engage with telecom operators regarding the recent spike in data and service charges. This motion, introduced by Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong (APC, Cross River South), was discussed during a plenary session on Wednesday.
The rise in data and voice service fees followed the Nigerian Communications Commission’s (NCC) approval of a 50% tariff increase, implemented on February 11, 2025. Since this change, many Nigerians, especially small business owners who rely on affordable internet access, have voiced concerns over the escalating costs.
Senator Ekpenyong pointed out that these increased expenses are adversely affecting both ordinary consumers and entrepreneurs in critical sectors for economic growth, stressing the necessity for affordable telecommunications services to support the well-being of young Nigerians.
Senator Victor Umeh (LP, Anambra Central) echoed this sentiment, highlighting that the recent hikes in telecom service rates, along with rising electricity tariffs and DSTV subscriptions, require immediate regulatory intervention. “Swift action is needed to address these increases, as citizens currently have no recourse for these issues,” he remarked.
Senator Sadiiq Sulaiman Umar (APC, Kwara North) also emphasized the urgency of regulating this social issue. The Senate’s resolutions included a call for the federal government to create a more favorable business environment and to explore the establishment of free internet hubs to enhance the socio-economic prospects of young people.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who led the session, stated that executing these resolutions would greatly benefit young entrepreneurs who depend on internet services for their businesses.
