The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has begun mobilising its members, along with civil society organisations, for a nationwide protest against the recent 50% increase in telecommunications tariffs.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) had initially denied approving the hike but later gave the green light for a 60% increase— a move defended by the Minister of Finance, Wale Edun.
In response, the NLC has described the tariff hike as “inhumane and anti-worker,” vowing to take action. Following an emergency meeting of its National Administrative Council (NAC) in Abuja, the union issued a communiqué condemning the decision and instructing all its affiliates to prepare for mass demonstrations on Tuesday, 4th February 2025.
According to the communiqué, signed by NLC President Comrade Joe Ajaero, the union sees the tariff hike as unjustifiable and a direct attack on Nigerian workers and citizens already struggling with economic hardship.
“NAC-in-session totally rejects the 50% Telecom Tariff Hike, which it considers too harsh on citizens. The Nigeria Communications Commission’s decision to approve this increase is insensitive and unjustifiable. It is a direct assault on workers and the general populace, who are already weighed down by worsening economic conditions caused by government policies they had no hand in making,” the statement read.
The NLC warned that the new telecom tariff hike comes on top of existing hardships— including skyrocketing fuel prices, rising food costs, electricity tariff increases, and general inflation. With the minimum wage still at N70,000, the union argues that such an increase is completely unfair.
To express its opposition, the NLC has called for a nationwide mass rally on 4th February, warning that this is only the first step in its resistance against the policy.
“All NLC affiliates and state councils are directed to begin full mobilisation in preparation for the protest. Civil society groups willing to support this cause are also encouraged to join,” the communiqué stated.
The Congress has issued a clear demand— an immediate suspension of the 50% tariff increase. It also called on the Federal Government, the NCC, and the National Assembly to engage in meaningful dialogue with key stakeholders to reassess the tariff adjustment in light of Nigeria’s current economic realities.
The union further warned of escalating actions if the demands are ignored, including:
- A potential nationwide boycott of telecom services
- More mass protests
- The possibility of a nationwide strike
“The Nigeria Labour Congress remains committed to protecting the interests of workers and citizens against exploitative economic policies,” the statement continued. “We will not relent in our struggle against policies that undermine the welfare and dignity of the Nigerian people.”
The NLC urged all Nigerian workers, those in the informal sector, and the general public to stand together against economic oppression. It emphasised that policies should prioritise the well-being of citizens rather than corporate profits.
As the countdown to 4th February begins, all eyes will be on the government’s response— will it engage with labour leaders, or will the protests go ahead as planned?
