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Tariff Hike: NLC Urges Nigerians to Prepare for Telecoms Boycott

January 23, 2025

 

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called on Nigerians to prepare for a nationwide boycott of telecommunication services in protest against the Federal Government’s recent approval of a 50% increase in telecom tariffs. The hike, announced by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), has sparked widespread outrage, with the NLC describing it as an unjust move that will exacerbate the economic struggles of ordinary citizens.

NLC President Joe Ajaero, in a statement on Wednesday, condemned the tariff increase, highlighting its devastating impact on Nigerian workers. He noted that telecommunication services have become a basic necessity, with an average worker already spending about 10% of their income on telecom charges. The hike, he explained, would force workers earning the ₦70,000 minimum wage to spend up to 15% of their earnings on telecom services.

Ajaero criticized the government for prioritizing corporate profits over the welfare of its citizens, accusing it of fast-tracking the tariff approval while delaying the implementation of the new minimum wage. He questioned the government’s commitment to protecting the people, calling on the National Assembly to intervene and halt the implementation of the increase.

In response to the hike, the NLC urged Nigerians to reject the adjustment and prepare for collective action, including the possibility of a mass boycott of telecommunication services. The union stressed the need for dialogue to explore a more reasonable and humane tariff adjustment.

Telecommunication companies, however, defended the hike, stating that it is necessary for the sustainability of the sector and for improving service delivery. The Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria maintained that the adjustment would allow operators to upgrade outdated systems and enhance network performance. The implementation of the hike is scheduled for February, with telcos emphasizing their commitment to delivering better services to subscribers.

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission also weighed in, acknowledging the financial challenges faced by telecom operators but stressing that the tariff increase must lead to significant service improvements. The commission welcomed a new directive by the NCC requiring operators to ensure transparency in tariffs, including clear disclosure of costs and benefits to help consumers make informed decisions.

The tariff hike has intensified scrutiny on both the government and telecom operators, with the NLC’s call for a boycott signaling potential disruptions in the telecommunication sector. As tensions mount, Nigerians await further developments in what could become a defining standoff between corporate interests and public welfare.

Written by Adeyemi Adewale




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