THE NIGERIAN SENATE of house assembly has asked the federal ministry of Telecommunications and digital economy on Wednesday to address the recent increase of data and other services imposed by telecom operators.
This motion was sponsored by Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong (APC, Cross River South) during plenary meeting.
The Explainer had reported a sudden increase of cost of data and Nigerians’ reaction over the hike approved by Nigerian Communications Commission tariff hike.
Senator Ekpenyong raised concerns that the soaring costs are not only affecting everyday consumers but also threatening the livelihoods of entrepreneurs in sectors where digital connectivity is essential for growth.
He said telecommunications services must be made affordable to enhance the well-being of young Nigerians.
Senator Victor Umeh (LP, Anambra Central) supported the motion, describing the motion as timely, lamenting that apart from the hike in cost of telecommunications services, there was also a hike in the cost of electricity tariff and DSTV subscription.
“Something needs to be done fast, to regulate the high increases. Citizens have no other way to seek redress,” Senator Umeh said.
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Senator Sadiiq Sulaiman Umar (APC, Kwara North), also said, “It’s very important to regulate this social crisis.”
In its resolutions, the Senate also asked the federal government to provide an enabling environment for doing business, as well as address the avalanche of challenges threatening businesses in the country.
The Senate also asked the federal government to consider making provisions for free internet hubs for young people to enhance their socio-economic well-being.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who presided over the session said the resolutions if implemented would assist young entrepreneurs who use the internet for various businesses to grow.
