The Nigerian Communications Commission has commenced a nationwide review of telecom pricing regulations, marking the first comprehensive reassessment of interconnection charges in nearly eight years as authorities seek to align industry rules with changing market realities and rising operating costs.
The review focuses on mobile termination rates, the wholesale fees operators pay one another to complete calls across different networks. Regulators say the exercise has become necessary following significant changes in Nigeria’s telecommunications landscape, including widespread 5G deployment, the growth of data-driven services, the emergence of mobile virtual network operators, and persistent inflationary pressures affecting network investment and operational expenses.
Industry stakeholders, telecom operators, consultants and regulatory officials gathered in Lagos to begin the process, which will examine whether existing pricing structures remain appropriate for today’s market conditions. The assessment will evaluate wholesale and retail pricing models, competition dynamics, infrastructure investment requirements and consumer affordability, according to information presented during the engagement. Brandspur Banking News Desk reports that the exercise is expected to shape the next phase of telecom regulation in Africa’s largest telecommunications market.
The commission is working with KPMG to conduct detailed market analysis, stakeholder consultations and international benchmarking. Participating operators will submit extensive financial and operational data covering revenue performance, costs, profitability, market share, capital expenditure, network quality and usage trends to support the review.
As part of the study, Nigeria’s regulatory framework will be compared with those of countries such as South Africa, Kenya, Indonesia and Malaysia to identify best practices and suitable policy responses. The outcome is expected to guide recommendations for a modernised pricing regime capable of supporting competition, encouraging investment and maintaining service quality while protecting consumers.
The NCC said stakeholder contributions will play a central role in developing a transparent and sustainable framework that reflects current industry realities and supports long-term growth across Nigeria’s telecommunications sector
