KEY POINTS

• Top executives from MTN and Airtel argue for cost rises as a path to expand telecom business and help it deliver better.
• Changes to what we spend are necessary to keep our network strong and services working well.
• The increase in telecom fees matches well with Nigeria’s drive to become a more digitally driven nation.

Chief Executive Dinesh Balsingh of Airtel Nigeria explains the telecom rate change added 50 percent by the NCC is a requirement for staying in business and giving customers better experiences.

Earlier this week, NCC released news that telecom rates will go up by 50 percent for the first time in ten years. The change targets easing business costs and promoting vital network investments.

The vote makes sense, according to Balsingh, because it helps us keep spending money on infrastructure while giving consumers better options to match their changing needs. Airtel still wants to bring everyone online, even after raising prices.

MTN Nigeria also backs the price adjustments

Karl Toriola, CEO of MTN Nigeria, showed his backing for the raise, pointing out that making this adjustment helps ensure top-quality services at a time when the economy isn’t doing great.

According to Mr. Toriola, the price change helps the company cope with present economic conditions, assuring continuous upgrades to facilities and network stability.

Nigeria’s digital future and economy came front and center in both companies’ statements, showing how a price change helps both now and in the long run while keeping all Nigerians included.