The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has announced a nationwide protest against the federal government’s planned 50% increase in telecommunication tariffs.
The demonstration is set to take place on Tuesday, February 4, as part of the union’s mobilization efforts to resist what it describes as an unjust and unbearable burden on Nigerians.
The decision was reached at the ongoing National Administrative Council (NAC) meeting of the NLC, where labour leaders resolved to send a strong message to the government against policies that could further deepen the economic hardship faced by millions.
The NLC had previously rejected the proposed tariff hike on January 22, following its approval by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). In a strongly worded statement titled “50% Telecom Tariff Hike: Another Burden Too Harsh!” NLC President, Joe Ajaero, condemned the move, describing it as a betrayal of Nigerians in favor of corporate interests.
Ajaero criticized the timing of the decision, arguing that Nigerian workers and the general public are already struggling under severe economic hardship. He pointed out that the average Nigerian worker spends around 10% of their salary on telecom services, and with the new hike, this figure could rise to 15%—an unsustainable cost for many.
“It is shocking that the government swiftly approved a 50% tariff increase for telecom companies within a month, yet took nearly a year to approve the new minimum wage for workers,” Ajaero said. “This disparity highlights a troubling reality—the government seems more interested in protecting corporate profits than prioritizing the welfare of its citizens.”
The NLC leader further questioned when the National Assembly would step in to hold the executive accountable for policies that undermine the well-being of the majority. He urged lawmakers to intervene and halt the implementation of the tariff hike to allow for proper negotiations that consider the interests of Nigerian workers and citizens.
Ajaero also hinted at possible mass action beyond the February 4 protest, including a nationwide boycott of telecom services, if the government fails to reverse the decision.
“This is a fight for our dignity, our rights, and our survival as a people. The NLC remains resolute in defending the interests of Nigerian workers and the masses. We will not allow policies that deepen poverty and inequality to stand unchallenged,” he declared.
The planned protest is expected to draw mass participation as Nigerians grapple with rising inflation, increased fuel prices, and general economic hardship.
