Subscriber group distances itself from NLC’s planned protest against telecom tariff hike 

NATCOMS President, Mr. Deolu Ogunbanjo, in a statement on Thursday,  described the proposed protest as unnecessary, warning that it could send negative signals to investors.

Recall that the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the telecom industry regulator, recently approved a 50% tariff adjustment in response to rising operational costs. This decision followed requests from telecom operators seeking a hike to address increasing expenses.

While the NCC justified the adjustment as necessary to maintain industry sustainability, NATCOMS and the NLC criticized the move, describing it as excessive and burdensome for Nigerian consumers.

The NLC President, Mr. Joe Ajaero, strongly condemned the 50% hike, calling on the NCC and the National Assembly to halt its implementation. Ajaero advocated for a dialogue to explore a more modest and humane increase.

“This is for our dignity, our rights, and our survival as a people. The NLC remains resolute in defending the interests of Nigerian workers and the masses.  

“We will resist this injustice and demand that the government prioritizes the interests of its citizens over corporate interests,” Ajaero said.

Contrary to the NLC’s approach, NATCOMS emphasized negotiation and legal measures as the appropriate responses to the tariff hike.

“We do not support the Nigerian Labour Congress’ call for industrial action. No, we don’t! NATCOMS is not in support,” Ogunbanjo stated.

“To investors and businesses, it is a wrong signal. Negotiation is still ongoing, and the tariff hike is scheduled for February. We still have eight days,” he added.

Defending its decision, the NCC explained that the 50% adjustment is a compromise, as operators had initially requested a 100% hike.

“The NCC has prioritized striking a balance between protecting telecom consumers and ensuring the sustainability of the industry, including the thousands of indigenous vendors and suppliers who form a critical part of the telecommunications ecosystem,” the commission said.

It added that the adjustment would enable operators to continue investing in infrastructure and innovation, leading to improved network quality, enhanced customer service, and greater coverage nationwide.