Yesterday, January 20, 2025, Nigerians woke up to news of yet another blow to their wallets. This time, it’s the cost of staying connected to the world—a 50% increase in telecom tariffs. Making a call, sending a text, or browsing the internet has become significantly more expensive, leaving many wondering: ‘Why now, of all times?’'
"We’re Already Struggling"
Life hasn’t been easy for the average Nigerian. Inflation is at a staggering 34.6%. The naira keeps losing value. Basic necessities like food and transport are almost out of reach. And now, the one thing many rely on daily—affordable connectivity—has been priced higher.
Take data subscriptions, for instance. Just a month ago, 1GB of data cost 1,000 Naira. Now, it’s 1,500. That extra 500 Naira might not seem like much on paper, but for families already deciding between a meal and other essentials, it’s heartbreaking.
Dr. Abbas Idriss, from Abuja, summed up the frustration of millions:
"This is cruel. People are barely surviving. How can anyone justify making things harder? The service isn’t even reliable. They should be improving networks, not raising prices."
He’s not alone. Across Nigeria, small business owners, students, and low-income families are voicing the same pain.
"What Choice Do We Have?"
Telecom operators, like MTN and Airtel, say they had no choice. They’ve been struggling too. Inflation is driving up their operational costs. Fuel and diesel prices are through the roof, and the naira’s value makes importing equipment a nightmare. MTN reported losing over 514 billion Naira last year.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) explained that the price hike was approved to help operators stay afloat. Without it, they claim, service quality would deteriorate. But to many Nigerians, this feels like a poor trade-off.
"It Feels Like We’re Being Punished"
The outrage isn’t just about the money—it’s the feeling of helplessness. Many Nigerians rely on affordable connectivity to make a living, stay informed, or connect with loved ones. Now, even these simple things feel out of reach.
A small business owner in Lagos shared her fears:
"I sell most of my goods online. If I can’t afford data, how will I reach my customers? This isn’t just about higher prices; it’s about losing opportunities."
Students, who depend on the internet for research and studies, worry about falling behind. Families fear being disconnected in emergencies. And the overwhelming sentiment is that Nigerians are being pushed further into a corner with no way out.
"What’s the Way Forward?"
The NCC has urged telecom companies to improve service quality and expand coverage, but for now, it feels like cold comfort. The reality is, Nigerians are carrying a burden that keeps getting heavier, and there’s no clear relief in sight.
This isn’t just about telecoms; it’s about survival. The economy is crumbling, inflation is choking, and now, even staying connected—a basic necessity in today’s world—feels like a luxury.
As one resident put it, "We’re tired. When will it end?"
Keynotes
1. Telecom Tariffs: Data costs have risen from 1,000 Naira for 1GB to 1,500 Naira; call costs increased from 11 Naira per minute to 16.50 Naira.
2. Inflation Woes: Nigeria’s inflation rate is at 34.6%, making basic living expenses unbearable for most.
3. Operator Challenges: Telecom companies cite rising operational costs, including fuel and currency depreciation, as justification for price hikes.
4. Economic Impact: Small businesses, students, and low-income families are the hardest hit, with fears of losing connectivity and economic opportunities.
5. Public Outcry: Nigerians demand better services and more affordable pricing amidst widespread economic hardship.
Disclaimer
The views expressed in this article reflect the experiences and opinions shared by various stakeholders. While efforts have been made to ensure factual accuracy, readers are encouraged to verify specific details independently. WorldviewDigested takes no responsibility for decisions or actions taken based on this content.
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