In a major policy shift, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the removal of the 5 percent excise duty on telecom services, a levy that had stirred nationwide criticism since its introduction in 2022.
The announcement was made by Dr. Aminu Maida, NCC’s Executive Vice-Chairman, during a media session in Abuja. He revealed that Tinubu’s decision was consistent with his pledge to avoid additional burdens on Nigerians.
“I was in a room when it was raised, and he said, No, no, no, we cannot put this on Nigerians. I was very pleased when the bills came out and we saw his words were followed through,” Maida disclosed.
Industry analysts believe the removal will stimulate growth across Nigeria’s digital economy, reducing costs for over 141 million internet users and more than 105 million broadband subscribers.
The NCC also announced upcoming transparency tools such as a national network quality map and quarterly user-based performance reports. These reforms, Maida explained, will expand accountability to include not only mobile operators but also infrastructure providers.
The commission is also taking steps to address consumer grievances, including billing disputes and alleged data depletion, with investigations showing that usage patterns and phone settings are major culprits rather than operator fraud.