Subscribers in Kano are frustrated with weak signals, poor network performance, and frequent service interruptions from major telecom operators like MTN, Glo, Airtel, and 9mobile.
Speaking to Kano Times, subscribers shared their experiences of disrupted services, highlighting the impact on their personal and professional lives.
Kabiru Bello Dambazau, a subscriber, explained how unreliable service caused him to miss a flight to Abuja. “It’s been a constant struggle,” he said. “This situation is causing untold hardship.”
Sagiru Bello Yakasai, a businessman, expressed frustration over frequent connection failures and slow data speeds. “The network providers seem indifferent to the plight of their customers,” he stated. “I’ve experienced constant disruptions, and service quality continues to decline.”
Yakasai acknowledged the NCC’s past efforts but urged stronger action, stating, “The NCC must fulfill its responsibility of protecting subscribers.”
Salim Sani Shehu, a journalist, also called for regulatory intervention to address what he termed “telecom providers’ oppression.” “The systems in this country haven’t been performing well lately,” he said. “We need action before things get worse.”
Hafsat Bello Dorayi, a tailor, emphasized the need for telecom companies to prioritize service improvement over profits. “Nigerians are angry with them,” she said. “The service is poor and unbearable. They need to improve.”
Meanwhile, MTN Nigeria CEO Karl Toriola called on the federal government to approve a tariff hike, warning of dire consequences if not granted. This follows a decade-long push from telecom companies for tariff increases due to a harsh operating environment that has spiked their costs by 300 percent. Record losses since 2023, following a significant naira devaluation, have further compounded their financial struggles.
In response, Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy Bosun Tijani stated that the anticipated hike could raise the floor costs of calls, SMS, and data by 30 to 60 percent—less than the 100 percent increase requested by telecom firms.
In December, Tijani agreed that tariffs would increase for industry sustainability. Karl Toriola emphasized that while telcos have asked for a 100 percent increase, the NCC may not approve that amount due to the country’s economic situation. However, he noted, “We are hopeful and optimistic that the right decision will be taken for the industry’s sustainability.”
