Hon. Chief (Dr.) Billy Famous Adesuwa Osawaru Opposes Arbitrary Telecom Tariff Increases, Calls for Fairness and Improved Services for Nigerians

Hon. Chief (Dr.) Billy Famous Adesuwa Osawaru Opposes Arbitrary Telecom Tariff Increases, Calls for Fairness and Improved Services for Nigerians

▪️NASS, Abuja/Feb.11th, 2025

In a bold stand for the welfare of Nigerians, Hon. Chief (Dr.) Billy Famous Adesuwa Osawaru has voiced strong opposition to the recent arbitrary increase in telecom tariffs by service providers in Nigeria. His statement, made today at the Green Chamber, underscores a critical concern: Nigerians are already grappling with severe economic challenges, and this latest hike in telecom tariffs will only exacerbate their sufferings. 

Nigerians, especially the hardworking citizens of Orhionwmon and Uhunwmonde Federal Constituencies, as well as those across Edo State, are already burdened with the weight of rising costs of living, unemployment, and inflation. The price of basic goods and services has soared, and many families are finding it increasingly difficult to make ends meet.

Now is not the time to impose higher costs on telecommunications services, a vital resource that connects people, businesses, and communities. For many Nigerians, the ability to communicate and access information through mobile phones is not just a convenience but a lifeline. With education, healthcare, and business operations increasingly dependent on connectivity, an increase in tariffs would disproportionately hurt the very people who are already struggling to survive.

The Need for Service Improvements Before Tariff Increases   While service providers have justified this tariff increase as a means of improving their operations, the reality is far from satisfactory. Nigerians continue to experience poor network quality, dropped calls, slow internet speeds, and inadequate customer support. How can service providers justify higher prices when their services are not up to standard? The Nigerian people deserve better.

It is vital that telecom companies first prioritize improving their networks, ensuring consistent coverage, fast data speeds, and reliable customer service. If a tariff increase is deemed necessary, it must be accompanied by clear, measurable improvements in service delivery. Consumers should not be expected to pay more for a service that fails to meet their basic expectations.

Chief (Dr.) Billy Famous Adesuwa Osawaru’s opposition to this increase reflects the sentiments of countless Nigerians who feel that the burdens placed on them are becoming unbearable. As a leader who truly understands the pulse of the people, Chief Osawaru stands with the citizens of Orhionwmon and Uhunwmonde Federal Constituencies, as well as all Nigerians, in calling for fairness and accountability from telecom service providers. It is not the time to take advantage of the public's current hardships but to stand in solidarity with them.

The government and regulators must step in to ensure that the interests of Nigerians are protected. Service providers must be held accountable for the quality of service they offer and must demonstrate tangible improvements before any increase in tariffs is considered.

Chief (Dr.) Billy Famous Adesuwa Osawaru’s unwavering dedication to the welfare of his constituents and the nation as a whole should be applauded. His leadership reflects the hopes and aspirations of Nigerians who deserve to live in a country where their voices are heard, their challenges are addressed, and their rights are protected.