Telecommunications companies in Nigeria are standing firm on their recent N6.98 charge for USSD services, despite widespread consumer backlash over failed transactions. The Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) Chairman, Engr. Gbenga Adebayo, addressed these concerns during a live radio discussion, emphasizing that the charges are necessary to sustain service quality amid growing operational costs.
Many Nigerians have expressed frustration, labeling the charges as “unfair billing” and accusing telcos of exploiting consumers through practices like data expiration. Adebayo acknowledged these complaints but insisted, “We are committed to providing reliable services and must fund our infrastructure.” This defense comes at a time when digital services are increasingly critical to everyday life, raising the stakes for both consumers and telecommunications providers.
As customers demand greater transparency and accountability, the onus is on telcos to not only justify their pricing but also enhance user experience. The coming months will likely see increased scrutiny of these charges, potentially leading to regulatory interventions or shifts in consumer behavior as the market adapts to this contentious landscape.
