Airtel CEO Advocates for Gradual Tariff Hike to Sustain Telecom Services
Airtel Nigeria’s CEO, Dinesh Balsingh, has emphasized the need for a tariff increase in the telecom sector, citing rising operational costs and growing demand for digital services.
Balsingh revealed that operational expenses for telecom companies have surged by over 300% in the past 18 to 24 months, driven by Nigeria’s challenging economic conditions. Despite this, telecom tariffs have remained unchanged for over a decade, putting immense pressure on the industry.
“To continue delivering high-quality services and meet the increasing demand for digital connectivity, we must adjust our pricing to align with current economic realities,” Balsingh stated.
The CEO highlighted the growing reliance on digital services in sectors such as education, banking, and healthcare, which necessitates continuous investment in network upgrades. He stressed that tariff adjustments are critical for expanding network capacity, enhancing service quality, and ensuring the telecom sector’s long-term viability.
“These adjustments will enable us to expand coverage, strengthen network security, and introduce advanced technologies, directly improving connectivity for Nigerians,” he said. “Our goal is to ensure no one is left behind in Nigeria’s digital transformation journey.”
Balsingh also acknowledged the financial challenges faced by customers and advocated for a gradual implementation of tariff increases.
“While significant tariff adjustments are necessary, we recognize the need for a phased approach to support our customers’ financial situations,” he explained. “This will allow us to invest in capacity, expand coverage, and improve service delivery, ensuring Nigeria remains competitive in the global digital landscape.”
