Telecommunications companies operating in Nigeria, including Glo, MTN, Airtel, and 9Mobile, have collectively appealed to the federal government for intervention in addressing pricing challenges within the industry.
In a joint statement issued by the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) and the Association of Telecommunication Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) on Thursday, the telcos emphasized that the current pricing mechanism does not reflect economic realities and poses threats to the sustainability of the industry.
The statement, signed by ALTON Chairman Mr. Gbenga Adebayo and ATCON President Mr. Tony Emoekpere, highlighted concerns over the lack of a general service pricing framework adjustment in the past 11 years.
Despite facing economic hardships, the telecommunications sector has refrained from revising prices due to regulatory constraints, according to the industry representatives.
The statement read, “For a fully liberalised and deregulated sector, the current price control mechanism, which is not aligned with economic realities, threatens the industry’s sustainability and can erode investors’ confidence.
“Despite the adverse economic headwinds, the telecommunications industry remains the only industry yet to review its general service pricing framework upward in the last 11 years, primarily due to regulatory constraints.
“Government needs to facilitate a constructive dialogue with industry stakeholders to address pricing challenges and establish a framework that balances consumers’ affordability with operators’ financial viability.”
They also expressed concerns on the worsening security challenges affecting the productivity of the services provided, urging the federal government come up with measures to tackle the menace.
“Telecom infrastructure undisputedly plays a pivotal role in Nigeria’s national security and socioeconomic growth, especially as the country currently contends with multiple security challenges that require urgent and immediate actions in response to these threats.
“Attacks on cell towers, fibre optic cables, and other critical assets disrupt telecommunications services and result in significant financial losses for operators. We urge the government to prioritise the security of telecommunications infrastructure and collaborate with law enforcement agencies to enhance protection measures and combat vandalism and sabotage effectively.
“The industry also requires substantial investments in network expansion, maintenance, and technology upgrades,” the statement added.
