The National Communication Authority (NCA) has promised the public that data prices will drop by the end of the year, addressing widespread concerns about high costs and poor services. This announcement comes amidst calls for the NCA board’s removal, partly due to MTN’s designation as a Significant Market Power (SMP). Critics argue that this classification has contributed to unreliable data services and inflated costs.
In response to these concerns, the NCA clarified that the SMP classification is intended to foster fair competition rather than impose burdens on MTN’s operations. The Authority explained that various measures, including balanced interconnection rates, tariff parity, and technology neutrality, are designed to enhance competition, spur innovation, and protect consumers.
Dr. Joe Anokye, the Director General of the NCA, discussed the upcoming changes during an interview on Eyewitness News with Umaru Sanda Amadu on Citi FM. He revealed that data prices are expected to decrease with the introduction of the NGIC wholesale carrier-neutral open access network. This network, set to launch by the end of the year, will allow operators such as AT, Telecel, and MTN to purchase bulk data without needing to upgrade their towers or equipment. This efficiency is anticipated to lower costs for consumers.
Dr. Anokye expressed optimism about the future, stating, “Data prices are expected to go down, especially again with the NGIC wholesale carrier-neutral open access. Now AT, now Telecel, even MTN, they will just buy bulk, they don’t have to upgrade towers, they don’t have to buy new equipment to provide 4G; another entity is doing that.” He added, “They are supposed to launch by the last quarter of the year, and going from there we begin adding more towers. I think we should be hopeful.”
Overall, the NCA’s initiative aims to address the public’s concerns about high data prices and service quality. With the new network expected to streamline operations and reduce costs, there is a growing sense of anticipation for improved data services by the year’s end.
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