The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has rejected a government-approved 50% increase in telecommunications tariffs and announced a nationwide protest for Feb. 4.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) recently approved the first tariff adjustment in more than a decade, citing inflation and the depreciation of the naira. However, the increase remains below the 100% hike that operators had sought for six years.
NLC President Joe Ajaero criticized the tariff hike as “insensitive” amid rising living costs and called for its immediate suspension. The union warned of a potential boycott of telecom services and a strike if authorities do not engage in dialogue.
The NCC defended the increase as necessary for industry growth while ensuring consumer protection. It mandated operators to clearly communicate the changes and improve service quality.
Consumer advocacy groups have also vowed to challenge the increase as Nigeria’s economic crisis deepens.