The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) has vehemently rejected the 50% telecom tariff hike recently approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), proposing a significantly lower 5% increase instead. The NLC argues that the proposed hike is insensitive and unjustifiable, considering the current economic hardships faced by Nigerians. With rising costs of living across the board, including energy tariff increases, the NLC believes a 50% telecom tariff hike would be an unbearable burden on citizens, particularly the working class and the most vulnerable segments of society. The NLC maintains that such a steep increase would further exacerbate the financial strain on individuals and families who are already struggling to make ends meet.
The labour union has reaffirmed its intention to stage a nationwide protest on February 4, 2025, to demonstrate its opposition to the tariff adjustment. The NLC views the proposed hike as an “assault” on Nigerian workers and the general populace, asserting that it would only deepen the economic challenges they face. The union leadership has emphasized the need for the government and regulatory bodies to prioritize the welfare of citizens and avoid policies that worsen their financial burdens. The NLC believes that a 5% increase, taking into account the existing economic realities, would be a more reasonable and palatable adjustment.
The NLC’s stance reflects a growing concern among Nigerians about the increasing cost of living. The union argues that the continuous imposition of taxes and tariff hikes is pushing the populace to a breaking point, where they may be unable to afford essential services. The NLC has warned that the 50% telecom tariff hike could lead to mass discontent and social unrest, highlighting the potential for widespread repercussions if the government fails to address the economic concerns of its citizens.
The NLC has vowed to commence its protest with peaceful rallies across the country. However, the union has also indicated that it will escalate its actions if the peaceful demonstrations fail to achieve the desired outcome. The NLC has stated that its actions will remain within the ambit of the law, but it has also warned that the protests could be of a scale not seen before. This indicates the union’s resolve to pursue its objective of reversing the proposed tariff hike and protecting the interests of Nigerian workers.
The NCC, on the other hand, justified the 50% tariff increase by citing the rising operational costs faced by telecom operators and the need to maintain industry sustainability. The Commission argues that the increase is necessary to ensure that telecom operators can continue to provide quality services and invest in infrastructure upgrades. The NCC maintains that the decision aligns with its regulatory responsibilities under the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003, and is essential for the long-term health of the telecom sector.
The clash between the NLC and the NCC highlights the complex interplay between economic realities, regulatory decisions, and the interests of different stakeholders. The NLC’s focus is on protecting the welfare of workers and the general populace, while the NCC emphasizes the need to ensure the viability and sustainability of the telecom industry. This conflict underscores the challenge of balancing competing interests in a challenging economic environment. The upcoming protests and the government’s response will likely shape the future of telecom tariffs in Nigeria and could have broader implications for the country’s economic and social landscape.
