The Senate on Wednesday directed the Committee on Communications to investigate the recent rise in data costs and suggest measures to make the telecommunications industry more sustainable and conducive to business.
This came after a debate on a bill sponsored by Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong from Cross River South.
The bill addressed the strain that increased data prices have caused for many Nigerians, especially young people who depend on affordable internet for their daily activities, News About Nigeria reports.
The bill highlighted that the over 200% hike in data costs has been burdensome for millions, particularly those who rely on the internet for work and business.
The Senate also urged the Federal Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy to engage with telecom companies to review data pricing, ensuring it remains affordable for all citizens.
The bill listed several reasons behind the high telecommunications costs in the country, including poor infrastructure, unreliable power supply, high import duties on ICT equipment, multiple taxes, security risks raising insurance costs, bureaucratic delays affecting business progress, and high energy expenses due to the erratic national power grid.
To address these issues, lawmakers called on the Federal Government to work with telecom providers to review recent price hikes and ensure fair and reasonable data charges for Nigerians.
In addition to this, the Senate passed another bill requiring all citizens to register, as part of an overhaul of Nigeria’s identity management system.
This bill aims to create a centralized, cost-effective identity system that aligns with global standards, improves data accuracy, and promotes inclusion.
