Telecom
operators have renewed push for end user tariff hike to reflect the cost of
doing business in the country.
The
operators acting under the aegis of Association of Licensed Telecom Companies
of Nigeria (ALTON) and Association of Telecom Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) in a
joint statement also urged the Federal Government to protect telecom
infrastructure against willful vandalism and theft.
The
operators asked for what they described as cost-reflective tariff of services.
“ALTON
and ATCON respectfully reiterate that telecommunications infrastructure
development requires substantial investments in network expansion, maintenance,
and technology upgrades. 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. For a fully liberalized 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.
ATCON and ALTON call upon the government to facilitate a constructive dialogue
with industry stakeholders to address pricing challenges and establish a
framework that balances consumers' affordability with operators' financial
viability,” the operators said.
On
infrastructure deficits, ALTON and ATCON said their members still lack access
to essential telecommunication services due to a myriad of challenges, including
multiple taxation and regulations and prohibitive Right of Way (RoW) charges,
inadequate electric power supply and vandalism of telecommunications
infrastructure.
The
groups sought the protection of assets and network infrastructure and urged the
Federal Government for legislation that designates telecommunications
infrastructure as Critical National Infrastructure (CNI).
“Both
Associations expressed deep concern over the escalating security threats facing
telecommunications infrastructure in Nigeria. Telecommunications 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.
“The
associations urge the government to prioritize the security of telecommunications
infrastructure and collaborate with law enforcement agencies to enhance
protection measures and combat vandalism and sabotage effectively,” they said.
On
regulatory independence, ALTON and ATCON advocate for the sustenance of a
culture of independence in the regulatory landscape to safeguard against undue
influence and unwholesome incursion into the Nigerian Communications Commission
(NCC’s) domain, which will inspire trust in the telecommunications sector and
encourage investment.
“Regulatory
neutrality and independence are crucial to ensuring a thriving
telecommunications sector. Statutory provisions lend credence to this notion,
as a lack of an impartial regulator will lead to a failure to maintain public
confidence in the objectivity and independence of its decisions.
“We
reaffirm our commitment to working collaboratively with the government to
address the challenges facing the telecommunications industry in Nigeria. By
fostering a conducive regulatory environment, prioritizing infrastructure
development, enhancing security measures, and facilitating pricing adjustments,
the government can unlock the full potential of Nigeria's telecommunications
sector, driving economic growth and societal development,” the joint statement
said.
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