NLC Threatens Nationwide Telecom Boycott Over 50% Tariff Hike

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has raised its voice in opposition to the recent approval of a 50% increase in telecommunication tariffs, calling on Nigerians to prepare for a nationwide boycott of telecom services in protest. The hike, which has drawn sharp criticism, was approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and is set to take effect next month.

While telecom companies insist that the price increase is necessary for the sector’s long-term sustainability and improved service delivery, the NLC has labeled it a grave injustice, especially at a time when Nigerian workers and citizens are already grappling with soaring inflation and a declining standard of living.

NLC President Joe Ajaero expressed his strong disapproval, pointing out that telecommunications have become a basic necessity for Nigerians, with many workers spending a significant portion of their income on telecom services. “For a worker earning the minimum wage of N70,000, this increase means paying an unsustainable 15% of their salary on telecom charges,” Ajaero said in a statement on Wednesday.

The union is particularly outraged by the speed at which the tariff hike was approved, which contrasts with the delays in implementing other crucial economic policies like the recently revised minimum wage. Ajaero criticized the government’s apparent bias toward corporate interests, accusing it of neglecting the welfare of ordinary citizens.

“We condemn this 50% tariff hike, especially in a time of economic hardship. The government seems to prioritize corporate profits over the welfare of its citizens. We demand a more humane increase, one that reflects the reality of Nigerian workers,” Ajaero said, urging Nigerians to prepare for collective action, including a mass boycott of telecom services.

While the NLC pushes for a reversal of the increase, the telecom companies, represented by the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ALTON), remain unfazed. ALTON Chairman Gbenga Adebayor affirmed that the tariff hike will go ahead as planned. He explained that the adjustment is essential for the sustainability of the telecom sector and for improving services.

“Every telecom operator wants to provide quality service. We are committed to upgrading outdated systems and improving user experiences. The long-term goal is to ensure the sector remains viable and that subscribers benefit from better services,” Adebayor said.

Despite the backlash, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has emphasized that any increase in tariffs must result in tangible improvements in service quality. It urged telecom companies to prioritize network reliability, speed, and customer service as part of their service enhancements.

The FCCPC also welcomed new directives requiring greater transparency from telecom operators, ensuring that consumers are fully informed about tariff plans and avoiding hidden charges. “Consumers should no longer have to worry about unexpected costs. The revenue generated from the tariff hike must be used to improve services,” the FCCPC stated.

As the dispute continues to unfold, the NLC’s call for a boycott and the telecom industry’s insistence on price hikes have sparked a national conversation about the balance between corporate interests and the economic realities faced by everyday Nigerians. The outcome of this conflict may have lasting implications for both the telecom sector and the welfare of Nigerian consumers.