The Federal Government has defended its decision to approve a 50% increase in telecommunication tariffs, stating that the move was necessary to prevent the collapse of telecom companies.
Minister of Communications and Digital Economy Bosun Tijani made this clarification on Wednesday while speaking to journalists at the State House.
He emphasized that without the tariff adjustment, telecom firms would struggle to sustain operations, which could ultimately lead to job losses within the sector.
Tijani highlighted the telecommunications industry’s vital role in Nigeria’s economy, noting that its value chain provides employment to nearly half a million people.
“If we had refused to approve the tariff increase, we would be risking job losses because some of these companies might shut down.
“When you weigh the options, allowing the increase is the better choice for the economy,” he explained.
He further assured that the government remains sensitive to the economic realities facing Nigerians.
“According to him, President Bola Tinubu carefully considers the welfare of citizens before making policy decisions.
“Some of these choices are tough, but it’s necessary to strike a balance between protecting individual interests and ensuring business sustainability,” Tijani added.
