The Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has said the increase in tariffs by telecommunications companies risks placing additional strain on consumers.

The LCCI, however, acknowledged that the current operating environment in the telecommunications sector has become too expensive for the telcos to operate profitably.

The LCCI cited factors such as rising energy costs. the increasing price of network equipment, inflation. and currency depreciation, saying they have placed a heavy financial burden on the operators, forcing them to increase tariffs.

In a statement, Dr. Chinyere Almona, FCA Director General, LCCI, said stakeholders must, however, consider that Nigerian citizens and businesses deserve better services from the operators and more robust regulation from the government.

"In our quest for a one trillion-dollar economy, we need more investments in critical infrastructure to drive the much-needed digital revolution for growth and development. A robust digital infrastructure will support innovation across all sectors of the Nigerian economy," Almona said.

"Looking beyond the hike, the operators and regulators need to settle down into delivering quality services to drive operational cost efficiency for businesses and support the automation of government services. We reiterate our call for reducing human interface in the conduct of regulatory services like licensing of products, necessary permits, issuance of certifications, and port operations. These activities can be automated for cost-effectiveness for businesses and better efficiency on the part of the government. The emerging innovative landscape in food production, surveillance technology for security. citizens' social engagement, and the exploits of artificial intelligence will all depend on a robust digital ecosystem that is comparable with advanced economies.

"A significant item for inclusion in the rebasing of Nigeria's GDP is the activities in the information and communications technology (ICT) sector. This sector recorded resilient growth during the COVID-19 pandemic and has also led other sectors in the post-pandemic recovery and stability. This reality should then attract more government attention and funding for the digital and creative industry. Businesses look to our digital infrastructure to support their operations and cost optimization. To remain competitive and continue to provide quality service, telecom operators must overcome significant challenges. Nigeria's digital economy must be empowered to catalyze economic growth and the driver of innovation and possibilities. We urge continuous engagement with critical stakeholders to create a win-win scenario."