NLC to hold nationwide rally against telecom tariff hike

The decision was made during an emergency meeting of the union’s National Administrative Council (NAC), as stated today in a communiqué signed by NLC President Joe Ajaero.

The NLC emphasized that the rally aims to highlight the negative impact of such a steep increase on a population already struggling with a minimum wage of just ₦70,000, which has been further strained by soaring petrol prices, rising food costs, increased electricity tariffs, and overall inflation.

The NLC has instructed its affiliates and state councils to mobilize for the protest, inviting civil society groups to join the cause.

The Congress called on all Nigerian workers, those in the informal sector, and the general public to unite against what it describes as an unjust policy.

The NLC firmly expressed its total rejection of the 50% telecom tariff hike, labeling it as excessively burdensome for citizens.

The union condemned the NCC’s decision as “insensitive, unjustifiable, and a direct assault on Nigerian workers and the general populace,” already grappling with severe economic hardship due to government policies.

The NLC is demanding an immediate suspension of the 50% increase and urged the Federal Government, the NCC, and the National Assembly to engage with key stakeholders to reconsider the tariff adjustment in light of the economic realities facing Nigerians.

The Congress warned that if its demands are not met, it would step up its actions, including a potential nationwide boycott of telecommunications services and other mass actions aimed at resisting policies that worsen poverty and inequality.

“The Nigeria Labour Congress remains committed to defending the interests of Nigerian workers and citizens from exploitative economic policies. We will continue our fight against any policies that undermine the welfare and dignity of our people. It is critical for Nigerian workers and citizens to unite and take action to combat further economic oppression and resist policies that prioritize corporate profits over the well-being of the people,” the union stated.

On January 20, the NCC announced its approval of the 50% tariff increase for telecom operators.

Spokesperson Reuben Muoka, stated that this adjustment, although lower than the over 100% increase some operators requested, was aimed at ensuring sustainability amid ongoing industry reforms.

The NCC noted that the increase falls under its regulatory power as defined in Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003 (NCA), which gives it authority to set and approve tariff rates for telecommunications operators.

These adjustments will remain within the tariff bands stipulated in the 2013 NCC Cost Study, with each request reviewed individually per standard practices for tariff reviews.

The implementation will adhere to the recently issued NCC Guidance on Tariff Simplification, 2024.