The Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) and the Nigerian Communication Commission (NCC) have issued a warning about potential increases in telecommunication tariffs, citing the current tariff regime's lack of sustainability. The decision to consider tariff hikes was reportedly discussed in a recent stakeholders' meeting.

ALTON Chairman, Gbenga Adebayo, emphasized the need for a price review to align with the rising operating costs faced by operators. He also pointed out the burden of 52 taxes imposed on operators nationwide during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration.

Adebayo highlighted the urgency of addressing the Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) debts owed to telecom operators by Deposit Money Banks (DMBs), amounting to N200 billion. He stated that these debts must be settled, and the association would consider blocking debtor banks from accessing their services.

In response, NCC Chairman, Dr. Aminu Maida, assured Adebayo of support from stakeholders in the sector. He stressed the importance of setting timelines for resolving the discussed issues. Maida pledged his commitment to the sector's growth, aligning his actions with President Bola Tinubu's Renewed Agenda and the policy guidelines outlined by the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani.

Recognizing the critical role of the telecom sector in the economy, Maida urged operators to implement measures ensuring its sustainable growth.