The Senate has urged the Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy to engage with telecommunications providers to review the recent surge in data costs, emphasizing the need for fair and affordable pricing for all Nigerians.
The resolution came after a motion was presented by Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong (APC-Cross River) during plenary on Wednesday.
The motion, titled “Urgent Need to Address the Increased Cost of Data Services in Nigeria,” raised concerns over the sharp rise in internet costs across the country.
Senator Ekpenyong pointed out that telecommunications providers had raised data prices by up to 200%, which he said had placed significant financial strain on Nigerians, particularly young people who depend on the internet for their livelihood. “This move has placed significant financial strain on millions of Nigerians, especially young people who rely on the internet for their livelihood,” Ekpenyong stated. He also noted that many young Nigerians are now part of the digital economy, using online platforms for freelancing, remote work, digital marketing, and social media management.
He further explained that fibre-optic internet services remain unaffordable for the average young Nigerian, leaving them reliant on mobile telecommunications companies. “The sudden and substantial increase in data cost threatens their economic survival and limits access to critical digital services,” Ekpenyong added.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio voiced support for the motion, emphasizing that its implementation would greatly benefit young entrepreneurs. “This motion, when implemented, would assist young entrepreneurs. It will not only enable them to remain in business but also ensure they have affordable prices that will generate revenue and profits for them,” Akpabio said.
In addition to reviewing the data costs, the Senate also resolved to call on the Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy to develop a policy framework for affordable internet services in Nigeria. The Senate further urged the Federal Government to establish and support tech hubs across the country, providing free or subsidized internet access for young entrepreneurs, students, and innovators. The Senate also mandated its Committee on Communications to investigate the factors driving the high cost of data and recommend solutions for a sustainable, business-friendly telecommunications sector.
According to Nairametrics, telecommunications operators in Nigeria have begun implementing the 50% price increase recently approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). MTN Nigeria, for instance, has raised its data subscription prices. The 1.8GB monthly plan now costs N1,500, replacing the previous 1.5GB plan priced at N1,000. The 20GB plan now costs N7,500, up from N5,500, while the 15GB plan has increased to N6,500, up from N4,500. Additionally, all networks have raised text message charges to N6.00 per SMS, up from N4.00, reflecting the 50% increment approved by the NCC.