The Federal Government has revoked the five per cent excise tax previously imposed on telecommunications (telecom) services, including voice calls and data
Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ordered the removal of the tax during discussions over the recently passed Finance Act.
“The development is expected to bring relief to over 171 million active telecom users across the country, many of whom have faced a 50 per cent tariff increase implemented earlier this year,” he said.
The excise duty had been introduced under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
It drew strong criticism from industry operators and consumer advocates, particularly because of its potential to increase costs for end-users already grappling with inflation and high living expenses.
The National Orientation Agency (NOA), in a statement, officially announced the revocation of the tax.
“The development is expected to bring relief to over 171 million active telecom users across the country, many of whom have faced a 50% tariff increase implemented earlier this year,” the statement added.
Telecom industry groups, including the Association of Licensed Telecom Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), welcomed the development, describing it as an important relief that could help make voice calls and data more affordable.
However, some stakeholders cautioned that the removal might not immediately translate into lower bills for all consumers, depending on how quickly service providers adjust their pricing structures.
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