News
50% tariff hike: Nigerians may spend N6.74tn on calls

The Nigerian Communications Commission approved a 50 per cent increase in call tariffs on Monday, which may raise the average cost of calls to N16.5 per minute.
Based on the 2023 national telephone traffic data, this hike could generate over N6.74tn in revenue for telecom operators in 2025 if call volumes remain stable, hence Nigerians may pay this amount to the firms.
However, this projection excludes the impact of free and discounted call promotions, which may alter actual revenue figures.
An analysis of data from the latest 2023 Subscriber/Network Performance Report by the NCC showed that in 2023, total outgoing telephone traffic was 205.3 billion minutes, while incoming traffic stood at 203.2 billion minutes.
The report read, “As of December 2023 total outgoing Local and National Traffic was 205,298,114,995.11 minutes while Total incoming Local and National Traffic was 203,187,588,876.00 minutes. MTN had the highest total outgoing and incoming Traffic of 122,667,600,437.00 and 123,762,501,615.00 minutes respectively in 2023.”
This implies that Nigerians spent about 408.5 billion minutes making local calls in 2023.
Since there was no fresh data yet for 2024, our analysis was based on the available data for 2023, which might vary for 2025.
Our analysis also excluded international calls, although Nigerians spent 1.5 billion minutes on international calls in 2023, according to the NCC.
Further analysis showed that MTN led the market, recording 122.7 billion minutes of outgoing traffic and 123.8 billion minutes of incoming traffic.
At the new rate of N16.5 per minute, MTN’s combined revenue from outgoing and incoming calls is projected to exceed N4tn, making it the primary beneficiary of the tariff adjustment and accounting for over 60 per cent of the market’s total revenue.
Airtel is expected to follow with a projected revenue of approximately N1.78tn, reflecting its strong share of both outgoing and incoming traffic.
Glo, the third-largest operator, is estimated to generate N536.2bn.
Smaller players, including Smile and Ntel, are expected to earn N5.7bn and N13.1bn respectively, affirming their minimal market influence.
9mobile (EMTS) is likely to generate about N105.6bn from its traffic volumes.
The projected N6.74tn revenue highlights the significant impact of the tariff increase.
Outgoing calls alone are expected to bring in N3.28tn, while incoming calls will contribute an estimated N3.23tn.
Despite the growing popularity of data services and over-the-top messaging platforms, voice calls remain a significant revenue driver for telecom operators.
MTN’s dominance in outgoing and incoming traffic reinforces its leadership position, with Airtel and Glo following as major contributors.
In contrast, smaller operators continue to face challenges, with limited market penetration and a smaller customer base impacting their revenue potential.
The PUNCH further observed that the 50 per cent tariff hike approved by the NCC will likely raise the average cost of an SMS to N6, and significantly boost revenue for telecom operators in Nigeria.
Based on the 2023 SMS traffic data, the projected earnings for 2025 could surpass N137.84bn, assuming traffic remains unchanged.
According to the NCC’s 2023 annual report, a total of 22.97 billion SMS were sent and received during the year, representing an 11.38 per cent decline from the 25.92 billion recorded in 2022.
MTN accounted for the highest SMS traffic, with 8.21 billion sent messages and 8.57 billion received, bringing its total to 16.79 billion SMS.
With the revised tariff of N6 per SMS, MTN is expected to earn approximately N100.72bn, making it the likely largest beneficiary of the hike.
The telecom giant’s share of SMS traffic represents over 73 per cent of the total market, securing its position as the dominant player in the sector.
Airtel is projected to generate N26.26bn in revenue from its total SMS traffic of 4.38 billion, comprising 2.01 billion sent messages and 2.37 billion received.
This accounts for 19 per cent of the projected industry-wide earnings. Glo, with a total SMS count of 1.35 billion, is expected to earn N8.10bn, representing 5.88 per cent of the total revenue.
Meanwhile, smaller operators such as EMTS and Smile are likely to see modest revenues.
EMTS, with 458 million SMS, is projected to earn N2.75bn, while Smile, which recorded just 1.2 million SMS, is expected to generate N7.36m.
Combined, these smaller players contribute less than two per cent of the total projected revenue for 2025.
The telecom industry is projected to earn N137.84bn from SMS in 2025, driven by the tariff hike.
However, the new pricing may affect consumer behaviour, as more Nigerians may shift towards over-the-top messaging platforms such as WhatsApp and Telegram, which offer cost-free alternatives.
The Nigerian Communications Commission approved a 50 per cent tariff adjustment for telecommunications operators in response to increasing operational costs and prevailing market conditions.
According to a statement made on Monday by the NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka, the decision was made under the NCC’s regulatory powers as stipulated in Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003.
The approved adjustment falls significantly below the over 100 per cent increase initially requested by some network operators.
The NCC stated that the decision was carefully calibrated to balance the rising costs faced by operators with the need to protect consumers from excessive price hikes.
The adjustment will adhere strictly to the tariff bands outlined in the NCC’s 2013 Cost Study and the newly issued Guidance on Tariff Simplification, 2024.
The statement read, “The Nigerian Communications Commission, pursuant to its power under Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003 to regulate and approve tariff rates and charges by telecommunications operators, will be granting approval for tariff adjustment requests by Network Operators in response to prevailing market conditions.
“The adjustment, capped at a maximum of 50 per cent of current tariffs, though lower than the over 100 per cent requested by some network operators, was arrived at taking into account ongoing industry reforms that will positively influence sustainability.
“These adjustments will remain within the tariff bands stipulated in the 2013 NCC Cost Study, and requests will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis as is the Commission’s standard practice for tariff reviews. It will be implemented in strict adherence to the recently issued NCC Guidance on Tariff Simplification, 2024.”
According to the commission, tariff rates have remained static since 2013, despite inflation and rising operational costs that have strained the telecommunications industry.
The adjustment is expected to address this gap, enabling operators to invest in infrastructure and innovation while maintaining the quality of services provided to consumers.
The NCC emphasised that the changes would bring improvements in network quality, customer service, and connectivity coverage.
According to the statement, extensive consultations with stakeholders in both the public and private sectors informed the decision.
The NCC assured that the adjustments would be implemented transparently, with operators mandated to educate consumers about the new rates and ensure measurable improvements in service delivery.
The statement concluded, “As a regulator, the NCC will continue to engage with stakeholders to create a telecommunications environment that works for everyone—one that protects consumers, supports operators, and sustains the ecosystem that drives connectivity across the nation.”
The Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, during a recent appearance on national TV, revealed that while telecom operators were pushing for a 100 per cent hike in tariffs, the government was only considering an increment of between 30 and 60 per cent.
“It should not be more than anywhere between 30 per cent to 60 per cent,” he said, noting that the proposed increase is less than what operators had requested.
However, with an approved 50 per cent increase, the average cost of phone calls will likely rise from N11 to N16.5 per minute, SMS charges will increase from N4 to N6, and the cost of 1GB of data will jump from N350 to N525.
Legal action
The President of the National Association of Telecoms Subscribers, Adeolu Ogunbanjo, has rejected the imposition of a new duty on the telecom sector, warning that it would worsen the taxation burden and negatively impact Nigerians.
“There was no agreement reached at the meeting with stakeholders,” Ogunbanjo said. “We presented our case, but nothing concrete was resolved during the meeting with the NCC in Abuja.”
The association has vowed to take legal action if the proposed duty is implemented without addressing subscribers’ concerns.
Ogunbanjo noted that while the association might accept a tariff increase of 5 to 10 per cent, anything beyond that would be unacceptable.
“If this new duty is implemented, we will take the matter to court. This kind of policy cannot stand,” he declared.
He suggested alternative funding mechanisms for telecom operators, such as raising capital through Initial Public Offerings.
“Let Nigerians be part of the business by buying shares. MTN has already gone public, and others can follow. This way, operators can raise funds without overburdening subscribers,” he said.
Ogunbanjo also highlighted the critical role the telecom sector plays in Nigeria’s economy, noting its contribution to foreign direct investment and GDP growth.
“Apart from oil, telecommunications is the only sector attracting significant investment. We cannot allow policies that will collapse the industry,” he stated.
He appealed to the minister to reconsider policies that could further impoverish Nigerians, citing poor electricity and economic conditions as ongoing challenges.
“A 50 per cent increase will cripple Nigerians. We will not accept this. A moderate increase is enough, and operators should explore other ways to generate funds,” Ogunbanjo insisted.
The Association of Telephone, Cable TV, and Internet Subscribers of Nigeria stated that with such an increase in tariff, there is a need for significant improvements in service quality.
President of the consumer group, Sina Bilesanmi told The PUNCH that the regulators including the NCC, and the minister were part of a virtual meeting in the morning where the decision for tariff hike was made.
Bilesanmi stated that the new tariff is to be implemented in February and warned that service providers must enhance their infrastructure and service quality within two weeks of the rollout.
“If we don’t see tangible improvements, we will take legal action against the telcos, the NCC, and the Federal Government,” he said.
The association’s support for the adjustment was driven by several factors, including the need to prevent the telecom sector from collapsing and to foster economic growth.
However, Bilesanmi made it clear that their acceptance is contingent on improved service delivery. “We urge our members to accept the tariff adjustment, but only if it results in better service. Otherwise, we will hold the authorities accountable,” he added.
Acknowledging the pressure in making the decision, Bilesanmi noted that stakeholders argued that rejecting the hike could lead to a shutdown of services. “I don’t want to be seen as an enemy of the economy,” he stated.
As February approaches, the association said it will closely monitor developments and remains committed to protecting consumer interests through all available legal means if service quality falls short of expectations.
News
INEC ought to have archived recall petition long ago-Senator Natasha

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan on Thursday hailed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for rejecting a petition to recall her as the lawmaker representing Kogi Central Senatorial District.
The lawmaker, who was a guest on Channels Television’s Politics Today, said the electoral umpire should have thrown out the petition long before it did on April 3, 2025.
“I’m a lawyer. I’m a senator and I understand how Nigeria works. For me, the most important thing is this recall process has been stalled.
“I give kudos and credit to INEC even though I believe they should have thrown it away from the get-go.
“I think it was void ab initio because there is no law in the Electoral Act that says a petition should be discarded just because there is no address but again, what if the address is false?”
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain argued that most of the addresses provided in the petition for her recall were false because most houses in her district weren’t labelled.
Even though INEC did count 208,000 signatures, I bet you if they had gone into the verification stage, they would have struggled to even have 500 people come out to attest to signing that,” she added.
News
We’re putting together new 2025 Budget for Rivers-Ibas

…hosts Delegation Of Rivers NASS Caucus
The Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibok Ete Ekwe Ibas, has said that an appropriation bill for 2025 is being articulated to provide for critical development concerns in healthcare delivery, education, agriculture and infrastructure.
Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibas also said that the anticipated budget will cater to creating more employment opportunities for Rivers people and advance delivery of technology in critical facets of public life.
The administrator gave the hint when he hosted the delegation of Rivers State caucus at the National Assembly, led by Dr Barinada Mpigi, the Senator representing Rivers South-East District, at Government House in Port Harcourt on Thursday.
Those on the delegation included Senator Allwell Onyesoh, the minority leader of the House of Representatives, Rep. Kingsley Chinda, Hon Dumnamene Dekor, Hon Solomon Bob, Hon Cyril Godwin Hart,
Hon Blessing Amadi, Hon. Felix Nwaeke, Hon Kelechi Nwogu, and Hon Victor Obuzor
Ibas said he has been resolute, since assumption of office, to restore law and order, and with support from the security agencies, an environment has been created where Rivers residents feel valued and safer.
The Administrator stated that the commitment is to make Rivers a model of peace in the comity of States, with a stable economy and citizens courageous to pursue their livelihood without fear or molestation.
“In addition to our peace building efforts, we are also focused on the economic stability and development of Rivers State.
“Since the Supreme Court verdict on the state’s budget, we have acted swiftly and decided to put together a new budget that reflects our commitment to healthcare, education, social services, and continued infrastructural development.
“We have worked diligently to ensure that the process is transparent, inclusive, and most importantly expedited. Our goal is to ensure that we do not lose any more time in making the necessary investments that will improve the lives of citizens.”
Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibas stated: “The budget which is been finalized focuses on creating job opportunities and investing in key sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure, and technology.
“We understand the urgency of this initiative, and we are committed to ensuring that they are implemented without delay.”
The Administrator noted that to get the task done, the support of the legislators will be required as key representatives of Rivers State in the National Assembly.
He sued for their assistance in securing the necessary resources and legislative backing that would bring the initiative of his administration to fruition.
“Your partnership is critical to success in ensuring that Rivers State remains on the path of progress and enduring peace for future generations.”
He explained that in the face of the challenges that beset Rivers, which led to the State of emergency declared by President Bola Tinubu, dialogue, community engagement and reconciliation were deplored to build trust among the citizenry.
He noted that the people of Rivers State have shown incredible resilience and patience in the efforts taken so far to restore the State back to the path of peace and respect for the law.
Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibas assured that his administration remains committed to achieving enduring peace for the state.
He said: “Beyond security, we have prioritised community engagements as a central part of our strategy. Dialogue, reconciliation, and inclusivity have been key to building trust among our people.
“We are determined to strengthen the bond of unity in Rivers State and to foster an environment where every citizen feels valued, heard, and respected. Together, we are making strides in ensuring that peace becomes a permanent feature of our state.”
Responding, Senator Barinada Mpigi, representing Rivers South-East District, said they are dedicated representatives of Rivers people at the National Assembly and resolved to support all efforts that will bring development to the State.
While commending the administrator for the modest successes he had achieved so far, Senator Mpigi pledged the support and cooperation of the legislators to ensure the return of the state on the path of law and order.
News
Just in: Shettima jets out to attend Senegal’s independence

Vice President Kashim Shettima has departed Abuja for Dakar, Senegal for official assignment.
The VP is expected to represent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the West African nation’s 65th Independence Anniversary celebrations.
Senegal marks its Independence Day on April 4 each year, commemorating its liberation from French colonial rule in 1960.
The annual celebration is a significant event featuring national parades, cultural displays, and ceremonies highlighting the country’s achievements and unity.
A statement issued on Thursday by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, said Shettima’s participation followed an official invitation from Senegalese President, Bassirou Diomaye Faye.
This underscored the strong diplomatic and economic ties between Nigeria and Senegal.
The two nations share longstanding relations, particularly within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), fostering cooperation on regional security, trade, and development initiatives.
The event is expected to reaffirm Senegal’s commitment to democratic governance and regional cooperation.
Vice President Shettima is scheduled to return to Nigeria immediately after the one-day celebrations, continuing his engagements in national development and diplomatic outreach.
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