Airtel Nigeria’s CEO, Dinesh Balsingh, has emphasized the need for tariff adjustments due to a 300% increase in operational costs over the past 18 to 24 months.
In a note shared on Monday, Balsingh cited challenging economic conditions affecting the telecom sector, underscoring the importance of such measures for long-term sustainability.
He noted that telecom tariffs in Nigeria have remained unchanged for over a decade, despite rising operational costs.
Nigerian telecom operators have proposed a 100% tariff increase to the Nigerian Communications Commission to address these challenges and ensure the sector’s sustainability.
Balsingh stated that the proposed tariff adjustments are designed to sustain the telecom sector while continuing to provide significant benefits to Nigerian consumers, ensuring reliable and quality services amidst rising operational costs.
“To continue providing high-quality services and meeting the growing demand for digital connectivity, it has become essential to realign our pricing structure with economic realities,” Balsingh emphasised.
stressed the significant investments required to sustain and expand telecommunications infrastructure, noting their importance in maintaining service quality and meeting increasing consumer needs.
The Airtel Nigeria’s CEO stressed the significant investments required to sustain and expand telecommunications infrastructure, noting their importance in maintaining service quality and meeting increasing consumer needs.
Balsingh emphasized that the growing demand for digital services in sectors like education, banking, and healthcare necessitates ongoing network upgrades to enhance capacity and service quality.
“The increasing demand for digital services requires us to continually upgrade our networks. These investments come at a cost, one that must be shared proportionally to guarantee long-term viability,” he added.
Balsingh stated that the proposed tariff adjustments would ensure the sector’s sustainability while driving significant improvements in service delivery.
“By enabling us to expand coverage, strengthen network security, and introduce cutting-edge technologies, these adjustments will directly enhance the quality of connectivity for Nigerians. Our priority is to ensure that no one is left behind in the country’s digital transformation journey,” he noted.
He reaffirmed Airtel’s dedication to supporting Nigeria’s goal of becoming a digital economy leader in Africa by driving innovation and promoting inclusive growth.