The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called for a nationwide mass rally on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, to protest the recently approved 50% telecom tariff hike by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). The union’s decision, announced in a communiqué signed by President Joe Ajaero, follows an emergency meeting held by its National Administrative Council (NAC) on Wednesday.
The rally, which aims to serve as a warning to the government, is in response to what the NLC describes as an unfair increase on a population already struggling with rising costs of living. Ajaero stated that the tariff hike is particularly harsh for Nigerians earning the current minimum wage of ₦70,000, who are already burdened by soaring petrol prices, increased food costs, hikes in electricity tariffs, and general inflation.
In the communique, the NLC emphasized that the 50% increase was “insensitive” and “unjustifiable,” especially given the economic hardships citizens are facing. It argued that such policies are a direct assault on the welfare of Nigerian workers and the general populace.
The NLC called on its affiliates, state councils, and civil society allies to mobilize for the rally. The union has also urged Nigerian workers, those in the informal sector, and the broader public to stand in solidarity against the policy.
“We reject the decision by the NCC to approve this hike and demand its immediate suspension,” the NLC said. “The Federal Government, the NCC, and the National Assembly must engage in meaningful dialogue with stakeholders to review this decision in light of the economic realities facing Nigerians.”
Should the government and relevant authorities fail to address their concerns, the NLC warned that it would escalate its actions. This could include a nationwide boycott of telecom services and further mass actions, including a potential nationwide withdrawal of services to resist policies that exacerbate poverty and inequality.
The union reiterated its commitment to defending the rights and interests of Nigerian workers and citizens, vowing to continue its struggle against policies it deems exploitative.
The controversy stems from the NCC’s January 20 announcement of a 50% telecom tariff increase. The commission justified the hike as a necessary adjustment for industry sustainability, despite requests from network operators for more than a 100% increase. The NCC stated that the decision was made in compliance with the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003, and would be implemented according to established tariff review processes. However, the NLC’s strong opposition suggests that this increase will remain a contentious issue for Nigeria’s labor movement.
