Thanks to strategic tariff adjustments and rising demand for data services, Airtel Nigeria recorded strong double-digit growth in mobile service revenue.

The country also saw a surge in smartphone adoption, contributing to a broader increase in data consumption, which helped push data revenue growth to over 38% Group-wide.

In line with Airtel’s mission to bridge the digital divide, Nigeria witnessed one of the highest increases in data users and 4G coverage, backed by ongoing network expansion and fibre rollouts.

The introduction of innovative solutions like Airtel Spam Alert, an AI-powered anti-fraud tool, further strengthened trust in digital services and underlined the operator’s customer-first approach.

Sunil Taldar, CEO of Airtel Africa, noted:

“Nigeria remains a cornerstone of our operations, not just in terms of scale but in setting the pace for innovation and execution. The impact of our pricing updates and product expansion has been felt in Nigeria, with results showing improved customer engagement and service uptake.”

Airtel Nigeria also played a major role in the Group’s mobile money growth, helping expand access to financial services and boost transaction values as part of a broader push toward digital financial inclusion.

With macroeconomic challenges beginning to stabilise and digital demand continuing to rise, Airtel Nigeria is well-positioned to maintain its leadership in delivering affordable, high-quality connectivity and financial services to millions of Nigerians.

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Trump said the U.S. will implement “reciprocal tariffs” on all countries of “approximately half” of what they charge us.

Among the countries slammed with reciprocal tariff is Nigeria. Under the tariff plan, Nigerian exports will be charged 14 per cent tariff as against the 27 per cent charged by the Federal Government.

Last year, Nigeria exported goods worth N931 billion to the United States, with crude oil forming the bulk of the goods. It, however, imported N1.05 trillion worth of goods from the U.S. in the same period.

Bringing out a chart to show the audience, he showed that China “charges” the U.S. a tariff of 67%, so the United States will charge China a 34% tariff.

The chart also showed that the United States will charge the European Union a 20% tariff, Vietnam a 46% tariff, Taiwan 32%, Japan 24%, India 26%, South Korea 25%, Thailand 36%, Cambodia 49% and more.

Trump concluded his “make America wealthy again” event in the White House Rose Garden by signing two executive orders. The first closes “the de minimus loophole” on China, which has allowed the country to export cheap goods to the United States without paying taxes and import duties.

The second implements the president’s “reciprocal tariffs”, which the president explained includes a 25% tariff on all imported cars and 10% to 49% tariffs on all goods imported from abroad.

Trump said the tariffs he announced would generate “$6 trillion in investments” but experts explain that tariffs are actually paid for by American businesses and consumers. That would make it the largest “tax hike” in U.S. history.

The European Union, which is facing 20% tariffs on all exports to the U.S., will not react until today when the European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen will make a statement.

Approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) on January 20, 2025, this adjustment marked the first tariff change in 12 years and is attributed to rising operational costs and the need for long-term sustainability within the sector.

Reactions to the tariff hike have been largely focused on the newly-priced data plans.  However, charges for SMS, and voice calls have increased across different networks.

Users noticed that text message prices have risen to N6.00 from the previous N4.00. Telco giant, MTN Nigeria, began to implement the increase on its data prices.

Followed closely by Airtel. Glo and 9mobile are expected to follow suit. (Additionally, Airtel has introduced a 25 kobo flat rate for all voice calls.)

The price hikes have sparked widespread discussions, with subscribers taking to social media to voice their discontent. Nigerians have expressed concerns over higher telecom costs, especially with rising inflation and the removal of fuel subsidies.

Telecom operators have explained, on the other hand, that call and messaging tariffs have remained static for years, while they have faced soaring operational costs.

These costs have been driven by inflation, exchange rate fluctuations, and the substantial investments required to meet growing consumer demand.

Industry data indicates that running costs have surged by over 300% in the last 18 to 24 months, forcing operators to scale back investments in network infrastructure.

According to Engr. Gbenga Adebayor, chairman of ALTON, many systems within the telecom sector are outdated and require optimisation.

In his words,

“If nothing is done, we might begin to see in the new year grim consequences unfolding, such as service shedding. Operators may not be able to provide services in some areas and at some times of the day leaving millions disconnected.”

The coming months will be critical in determining whether the tariff increase can indeed revitalise the industry and pave the way for sustainable growth.

Thus, different initiatives have been launched to tackle the failure of the Nigerian power sector to provide adequate electricity supply to domestic households, businesses, etc.

But, did you know? The spread of misinformation about solar and wind energy could lead some States and even the Country to restrict or even reject projects in this line.

Yes. Many even say ‘renewable energy is bad for nature’. This myth takes many forms; construction destroying natural habitats and decreasing biodiversity to birds and bats flying into operational wind turbines, many renewable projects experience delays due to misplaced fears around their being bad for nature.

On Friday, November 30, 2024 the Consumer Advocacy and Empowerment Foundation (CADEF) launched Distributed Energy Resources (DER), a laudable initiative ​a​imed at addressing the information gap within the renewable energy space. 

Professor Chiso Ndukwe-Okafor, the executive director of CADEF, in this interview with Techeconomy​, spoke about the unyielding determination and passion for Nigeria’s transition to renewable energy, including wind, solar, biomass, hydro, and geothermal to achieve the universal energy access by 2030.

Under Prof. Ndukwe-Okafor’s guidance, CADEF has emerged as a force to reckon with, tirelessly working to empower individuals and groups, fostering autonomy and self-determination economically and socially.

Prof. Ndukwe-Okafor’s expertise extends globally, having worked with organizations in the United States, Nigeria, Kenya, and Zambia, enhancing their capacity through strategic design and training.

One of her significant achievements includes being the Co-Principal Investigator for a National Science Foundation grant aimed at developing a coordinated regional IT education and workforce development system in Boston, MA.

She reiterated CADEF’s dedication to empowering the average Nigerian consumer. “We aim to provide a voice for consumers, advocate for their rights, and create opportunities for their empowerment. CADEF serves as a bridge between consumers, producers, manufacturers, and regulatory bodies, ensuring that consumers’ interests are protected and their needs are met”, she said.

Excerpt:

TE: How would you assess the current state of electricity (supply) in Nigeria compared to other countries?

Prof. Ndukwe-Okafor: Nigeria’s electricity situation is a well-known challenge. We face significant power shortages, with demand far exceeding supply. This shortfall impacts both urban and rural areas, hindering industrial growth and economic development.

TE: Beyond making renewable energy knowledge accessible to everyone, what other gaps must we address to benefit the average consumer?

Prof. Ndukwe-Okafor:  We are well aware of the electricity deficit in both urban and rural areas, particularly in suburban and interior regions. This lack of power hampers industrial production.

To fully harness renewable energy, we need to prioritize education and awareness. Our current curriculum, from secondary to tertiary levels, lacks the necessary focus on renewable energy technologies. We must cultivate a skilled workforce capable of maintaining and producing renewable energy solutions.

By transitioning to a manufacturing economy, we can reduce reliance on imports and leverage our abundant natural resources. To achieve this, we must update our educational system to equip students with the knowledge and skills required for the renewable energy sector.

Therefore, a significant gap lies in education and skill development.

TE: What is the goal of the DER initiative, and how can it benefit the average Nigerian consumer?

Prof. Ndukwe-Okafor:  Earlier today (Friday), we discussed Distributed Energy Resources (DER). The goal is to make electricity more accessible to the average consumer.

The DER website is designed to empower people to make informed decisions about renewable energy, particularly solar power.

By using the solar calculator and other resources on the website, individuals can avoid being misled by unscrupulous vendors.

Our hope is that within the next three months, the website will attract 20,000 to 30,000 visitors. We want people to leave the site feeling informed and inspired, with at least 20% considering renewable energy as a viable option for their energy needs. Ultimately, we aim to spread awareness about the availability and benefits of DER across Nigeria.

TE: What challenges have you encountered in implementing the DER initiative, and how are you addressing them?

Prof. Ndukwe-Okafor: One significant challenge is the dissemination of information. We are actively collaborating with various agencies and organizations to reach a wider audience. Additionally, we’re working to overcome data silos and improve access to reliable information.

TE: What are the benefits of adopting green energy for the average Nigerian?

Prof. Ndukwe-Okafor: Green energy offers numerous advantages for Nigerians. By switching to renewable sources like solar or wind power, individuals can: Reduce harmful emissions and air pollution, leading to better respiratory health.

It can minimize noise disturbances from traditional generators. Lower long-term energy expenses, as renewable energy sources become more affordable over time.

Green energy can also make you become less reliant on fossil fuels and fluctuating fuel prices as well as support environmental conservation and reduce carbon footprint.

While the initial investment in green energy systems can be significant, the long-term benefits, including cost savings and environmental impact reduction, make it a worthwhile investment for the average Nigerian.

TE: Many people are interested in alternative energy solutions in the country. However, accessibility remains a challenge. What can be done to improve access to these solutions?

Prof. Ndukwe-Okafor: On our website, we have some of the institutions that offer different types of loans. We hope to continue to increase as more financing options are made available to us. We will add them to the list.

But, also, that the government will also look into completely removing tariffs because most of the majority of renewable energy materials are imported. So there is a need to remove tariffs in order to encourage more people to install it. If I install it in my office, there should be a tax incentive. Reduce their tax level taxes, to encourage them because they’re not providing their own energy.

So there should be tax incentives. VATs should be removed for installation to encourage people to sign up for renewable energy resources. 

So these are some of the things that governments could do. There’re already policies. There’s already policies in place that encourage this. But we should go from what your question is more financial incentives to encourage this.

TE: What initiatives is CADEF undertaking to empower young people and encourage their involvement in the green energy sector?

Prof. Ndukwe-Okafor:  CADEF, in partnership with Jacob’s Ladder, is currently running the Green Labs Incubation program. Over 81 young people applied, and 20 were selected to participate in a 5-week innovation challenge.

The program is designed to help these young innovators develop not only great ideas but also the skills to turn those ideas into successful businesses.

Over the next 9 months, they will receive training in areas such as mindset, finance, leadership, market research, and business development.

In addition to the incubation program, CADEF is working with the Ministry of Environment to develop an awareness program for secondary and tertiary institutions.

This program will educate young people about the green economy and encourage sustainable practices, such as recycling and conscious consumption.”

TE: What is your vision for Nigeria’s energy future, and how can CADEF contribute to achieving this? 

Prof. Ndukwe-Okafor:  We aspire to become a nation admired for its economic progress. By investing in renewable energy, we can support industries and manufacturing.

Nigeria is rich in natural resources, but to thrive as a manufacturing hub, we need reliable infrastructure, including a stable power supply.

We aim to revive our manufacturing sector and reduce our dependence on imports, as we did in the 1970s.

Our goal is to transition from being a net importer to a net exporter of goods and services.”

TE: What message do you have for young Nigerians who are passionate about making a difference in the energy sector?

Prof. Ndukwe-Okafor:  My message to young people is that we’re in the 21st century, on the cusp of the 22nd. The future is driven by technology, sustainability, and human connection. Young people should focus on emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and blockchain, as well as sustainable practices in the green and blue economies. Ultimately, success lies in building strong communities and supporting one another.”

The group believes that such an increase would worsen the suffering of already struggling households, particularly in the aftermath of the fuel subsidy removal.

Dr. Agodi Kanu, the Director-General of NAGLI, emphasized the need for the government to engage in meaningful discussions with stakeholders and prioritize transparency in decision-making processes.

NAGLI suggests that sustainable solutions should be pursued to ensure the welfare and economic prosperity of all Nigerians.

The organization outlined nine key points of disapproval regarding the tariff increase proposal, focusing on how it could burden households, increase operational costs for small businesses, and hinder accessibility to electricity for many citizens.

Instead of higher tariffs, NAGLI advocates for promoting renewable energy sources and investing in sustainable solutions to address electricity supply challenges.

NAGLI also calls for attention to issues like metering and tariff harmonization to prioritize customer welfare.

They urge for an end to disconnections without notice, improved response mechanisms, and measures to prevent field staff from exploiting the system for personal gain