The Nigerian Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, has expressed support for a moderate increase in telecommunications tariffs, proposing a hike of 30% to 60%. The minister stressed the importance of balancing economic growth with affordability during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today.
Tijani highlighted the telecom sector’s significant contribution to Nigeria’s economy, accounting for 14% to 16% of the nation’s GDP. He also underscored its employment impact, directly providing jobs to over 15,000 individuals and indirectly supporting around 500,000 more across the country.
While advocating for the hike, Tijani emphasized the need for a balanced approach to ensure the sustainability of the sector without overburdening consumers. The proposed tariff adjustment aims to support the industry’s growth while maintaining its crucial role in Nigeria’s digital economy.
The telecom sector continues to be a pivotal force in driving innovation and connectivity, making careful policy decisions critical to its future success.