The Nigerian Senate has directed its Committee on Communications to investigate the recent surge in data costs and propose measures to create a more sustainable and business-friendly telecommunications sector.
This decision followed a debate on a bill sponsored by Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong (Cross River South), which highlighted the financial burden the price increase has placed on millions of Nigerians, particularly young people who depend on affordable internet access for their livelihoods.
The bill pointed out that data costs had risen by over 200%, significantly impacting the finances of ordinary citizens.
In response, the Senate urged the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy to engage telecom operators in reviewing the recent price hike to ensure data services remain accessible and fairly priced.
Lawmakers identified several factors contributing to high telecom costs in Nigeria, including:
Poor infrastructure and unreliable electricity supply
High import tariffs on ICT equipment
Multiple taxation and excessive regulatory fees
Security challenges increasing operational risks and insurance expenses
Bureaucratic hurdles slowing business operations and innovation
High diesel and alternative energy costs due to power grid failures
In addition to investigating data costs, the Senate passed a bill aimed at revamping Nigeria’s identity management system.
The proposed legislation seeks to repeal and replace the existing National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) Act to create a more efficient, globally aligned identity database.
According to Senator Victor Umeh (Anambra Central), who chaired the Committee on National Identity Card and Population, the bill aims to establish a unified and cost-effective national identity system to improve data accuracy, enhance inclusion, and close existing gaps.
If enacted, the law will authorize the creation of a centralized database and a commission responsible for registering citizens and issuing identity cards.
The bill now awaits review by the House of Representatives before being sent to the President for approval.