The Chief Executive Officer of Airtel Nigeria, Dinesh Balsingh, has stated that tariff increases by telecommunication companies are unavoidable due to rising operational costs. He emphasized the urgent need for adjustments to ensure the sustainability of the telecom sector amidst Nigeria’s challenging economic conditions.
“For over a decade, tariffs have remained static despite the dramatic increase in operating expenses, which have surged by over 300 per cent in the last 18 to 24 months alone,” Balsingh revealed. He noted that the harsh economic realities have drastically impacted the telecom industry, making realignment of tariffs essential to continue delivering quality services.
According to the Airtel boss, the growing demand for digital services in sectors like education, banking, and healthcare has necessitated continuous network upgrades. These upgrades, he said, require significant investment, which current tariffs cannot sustain.
“The increasing demand for digital services requires us to continually upgrade our networks. These investments come at a cost, one that must be shared proportionally to guarantee long-term viability,” he explained.
Balsingh further stressed that tariff adjustments would directly benefit Nigerians by improving service quality, expanding coverage, and strengthening network security. “By enabling us to expand coverage, strengthen network security, and introduce cutting-edge technologies, these adjustments will directly enhance the quality of connectivity for Nigerians,” he said.
While advocating for tariff increases, Balsingh assured that the adjustments would be implemented gradually to minimize the financial burden on customers. He acknowledged the economic challenges faced by Nigerians and reiterated the company’s commitment to affordability.
“While significant tariff adjustments have become necessary, we understand the importance of gradual implementation to support our customers’ financial positions,” he said.
The CEO also highlighted the importance of ensuring Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global digital landscape. He stated that investments in network capacity, coverage expansion, and service delivery are critical to achieving this goal.
“Our priority is to ensure that no one is left behind in the country’s digital transformation journey. These steps will enable Nigeria to remain competitive in the global digital landscape,” Balsingh added.
