•Nigerian Senate
The Senate today asked the federal ministry of telecommunications and digital economy to engage with telecom operators with a view to addressing the recent increase in the cost of data and other services.
This was sequel to a motion sponsored by Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong (APC, Cross River South) during plenary, reports Daily Trust.
Telecommunications operators had increased the cost of data and voice services following the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) approval of a 50% tariff hike, implemented on February 11, 2025.
Nigerians have been grappling with rising data prices since then. This shift has ignited widespread concerns, especially among small business owners, who rely on affordable and reliable internet services to sustain their operations.
In his motion, Senator Ekpenyong argued that the soaring costs are not only affecting everyday consumers but also threatening the livelihoods of entrepreneurs in sectors where digital connectivity is essential for growth.
He said telecommunications services must be made affordable to enhance the well-being of young Nigerians.
Contributing to the debate, senator Victor Umeh (LP, Anambra Central) described the motion as timely, lamenting that apart from the hike in cost of telecommunications services, there were also a hike in the cost of electricity tariff and DSTV subscription.
“Something needs to be done fast, to regulate the high increases. Citizens have no other way to seek redress,” Senator Umeh said.
Senator Sadiiq Sulaiman Umar (APC, Kwara North), also said, “It’s very important to regulate this social crisis.”
In its resolutions, the Senate also asked the federal government to provide an enabling environment for doing business, as well as address the avalanche of challenges threatening businesses in the country.
The Senate also asked the federal government to consider making provisions for free internet hubs for young people to enhance their socio-economic well-being.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who presided over the session said the resolutions if implemented would assist young entrepreneurs who use the internet for various businesses to grow.
