MTN, GLO, 9mobile, Airtel to boost call and data subscriptions

Telecommunication businesses under the auspices of the Association of Licensed Telecommunication Operators of Nigeria, ALTON, have advocated an increase in call and SMS charges.

This is to offset the rising cost of doing business in Nigeria. 

In a letter to Nigerian Communications Commission, the group complained that the cost of doing business in the nation had grown by 40%.  

According to the group, the telecoms industry has been severely damaged by the 2020 economic slump and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. 

They also stated that the conflict had resulted in a 35% rise in their operational expenditure owing to higher energy costs.  

“ALTON considers it expedient for the telecommunications sector to undergo periodic cost adjustments through the commission’s intervention in order to minimize the impact of the challenging economic issues faced by our members,” the association said. 

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ALTON suggested an “upward review of the price determination for voice and data and SMS. Given the state of the economy and the circa 40 percent increase in the cost of doing business, we wish to request an interim administrative review of the mobile (voice) termination rate for calls; administrative data floor price, and cost of SMS as reflected in extant instruments.” 

The pricing floor for calls would be also raised from N6.4 to N8.95 under this plan, while the price ceiling for SMS will be raised from N4 to N5.61.  

However, This development occurred as corporate groups continued to explore ways to survive the country’s difficult economic situation. 

Following the constant rise in the price of diesel at the pump, GTBank decreased its operating hours. In addition, First Bank of Nigeria shortened the hours of operation at certain of its locations.