The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has strongly condemned the Federal Government and telecommunications companies for implementing a 50% increase in telecom tariffs amid rising living costs. NLC President Joe Ajaero expressed that this hike represents an assault on the welfare of Nigerians and reflects the government’s preference for prioritizing corporate profits over the needs of its citizens.
Speaking at Labour House in Abuja on January 22, 2025, Ajaero emphasized that the NLC is not against tariff reviews but objects to the magnitude of the increase. He criticized the National Assembly for failing to advocate for the majority of Nigerians regarding such policies.
Ajaero pointed out that telecommunication services are essential for daily life, with the average Nigerian worker spending about 10% of their income on telecom charges. For those earning the minimum wage of ₦70,000, this hike translates to an increase in telecom costs from ₦7,000 to ₦10,500 per month, which constitutes 15% of their salary—an unsustainable burden.
He also noted the stark contrast in the government’s responsiveness, as it approved the tariff hike within a month while taking nearly a year to revise the minimum wage. This disparity highlights a troubling trend of aligning with corporate interests over those of ordinary citizens.
The NLC has called for an immediate halt to the implementation of the tariff hike and suggested the possibility of a nationwide boycott of telecom services to compel a reversal of what they describe as a punitive increase. Ajaero urged Nigerians to prepare for collective action, stressing the importance of defending their rights and dignity against policies that exacerbate poverty and inequality.
The NLC remains resolute in its commitment to protect the interests of Nigerian workers and the broader populace, advocating for a more humane approach to tariff adjustments.
