The National Communication Authority (NCA) has assured the public that data prices will decrease by the last quarter of the year, addressing widespread concerns over high data costs and poor services.
This assurance follows criticism and calls for the dissolution of the NCA board, partly due to MTN’s classification as a Significant Market Power (SMP), which some argue has led to unreliable data supply and high costs.
In a statement, the NCA clarified that the SMP classification aims to promote fair competition, not burden MTN’s operations.
The Authority explained that measures such as unbalanced interconnection rates, tariff parity, and technology neutrality will foster competition, innovation, and consumer protection.
Speaking on Eyewitness News with Umaru Sanda Amadu on Citi FM, NCA Director General Dr. Joe Anokye stated that data prices are likely to decrease with the introduction of the NGIC wholesale carrier-neutral open access network.
This network, expected to be launched by the last quarter of the year, will enable operators like AT, Telecel, and MTN to purchase bulk data without upgrading towers or equipment, leading to increased efficiency and reduced costs.
Dr. Anokye expressed optimism, saying that with the launch of the NGIC wholesale carrier-neutral open access network and the addition of more towers, data prices should decrease significantly by the end of the year.
