The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has announced plans for a nationwide protest in response to the federal government’s proposed 50% increase in telecom tariffs. The union strongly opposes the hike, calling it an unfair burden on Nigerians already grappling with economic hardship.
Reports indicate that the tariff increase is part of the government’s strategy to generate an estimated ₦1.6 trillion from the telecom sector. The move has drawn criticism from labour groups and consumer advocates, who argue that higher communication costs will negatively impact businesses, students, and low-income earners who rely heavily on mobile services.
The NLC has warned that unless the decision is reversed, it will mobilize workers and citizens for mass action. Union leaders insist that the hike is unjustifiable, especially given the rising cost of living in the country. They argue that rather than increasing tariffs, the government should focus on policies that ease financial pressure on Nigerians.
Meanwhile, telecom industry stakeholders have raised concerns about the economic implications of the planned hike. While some government officials defend the move as necessary for revenue generation, critics argue that it could lead to reduced access to communication services and further widen the digital divide.
As tensions rise, all eyes are on the government’s next steps, with labour unions vowing to resist any policy that worsens the financial strain on Nigerians.
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