The Take It Back Movement strongly oppose the Nigerian Communications Commission’s recent approval of a 50% tariff hike on calls, SMS, and data services. We call on the government of Tinubu to immediately reverse this policy or face mass protests.
This decision will significantly impact Nigerians who are already facing increased living costs due to economic challenges, and it undermines the progress made in making mobile services more affordable and accessible in Nigeria.
Despite the assertion by the GSM Association that mobile data in Nigeria is among the cheapest globally, with an average price of $0.38 per gigabyte, this new tariff risks widening the digital divide and exacerbating economic inequalities across the country.
Nigeria’s growing digital economy and mobile money sector rely on affordable data and telecommunication services, and these higher costs will impede their progress and development.
The government’s justification that the increase will bridge the gap between operational costs and service delivery is unacceptable. Instead, it is a burden that will be disproportionately borne by Nigerians who can least afford it.
We demand that the Nigerian Communications Commission reconsiders this decision and seeks alternative solutions to support telecommunications companies without negatively affecting millions of Nigerians.
Also, the Nigerian government must prioritize accessible and affordable communication services as a means to drive innovation, stimulate economic growth, and create opportunities for all citizens.
We urge Nigerians to join us in protesting these unjust price hikes and advocating for transparent and inclusive policymaking that reflects the needs and aspirations of our people. Together, we can fight for a fairer and more prosperous Nigeria.
Signed:
Sanyaolu Juwon
National Coordinator,
Take It Back Movement
Stephen Olabiyi
Public Relations Officer
Date: 21, JANUARY, 2025
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