The Nigerian Senate has directed its Committee on Communications to investigate the recent spike in data costs and propose solutions for a more sustainable telecommunications sector.
This decision followed a debate on a bill sponsored by Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, which noted the financial burden on millions of Nigerians, particularly young people who depend on affordable internet access for their livelihoods.
The bill highlighted several factors contributing to the increased costs, such as poor infrastructure, high import duties on ICT equipment, multiple taxes, security concerns, and high energy costs.
In response, the Senate urged the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy to work with telecom providers to review data prices and ensure fair and affordable pricing.
Additionally, the Senate passed a bill for mandatory citizen registration, aiming to reform Nigeria’s identity management system by repealing and reenacting the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) Act.
The bill seeks to create a centralized database and improve the accuracy of identity records, and now awaits approval from the House of Representatives before being forwarded to the President for assent.
News Edited By Success Maduagwu Nmesoma