Just in: TUC Supports New Call Tariff, as NLC Insists on Protest 

NLC Declares Nationwide Protest Over 50% Telecom Tariff Hike

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has announced plans to embark on a nationwide protest against the proposed 50% increase in telecom tariffs, as approved by the Federal Government and announced by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). This decision was communicated in a statement issued on February 4, 2025, by NLC National President, Joe Ajaero, following a meeting of the National Administrative Council (NAC).

The proposed tariff increase will affect call rates, SMS, and data costs across all networks. While telecom operators had initially requested a 100% increase, the government approved a 50% hike, citing economic challenges.

In response, the NLC has strongly opposed the increase, describing it as insensitive, unjustifiable, and a direct attack on Nigerian workers and citizens, who are already grappling with economic hardship, The labor union argued that the decision further burdens Nigerians, especially in light of recent hikes in fuel prices, electricity tariffs, and rising food costs.

Speaking with DparrotNews, the Oyo State NLC Chairman, Comrade Kayode Martins, emphasized that the protest, scheduled for Tuesday, February 4, 2025, will serve as a warning against unfair economic policies that continue to affect struggling Nigerians.

The protest also comes amid growing concerns that, despite the recent implementation of the new N70,000 minimum wage, the cost of living continues to rise, significantly affecting the purchasing power of the average Nigerian.

In a related development, Trade Union Congress (TUC) Chairman, Comrade Bosun Olabiyi, shared a different perspective in an interview with DparrotNews. He stated that while the tariff increase may be unpopular, it is a necessary adjustment for telecom operators to sustain their businesses amid economic realities.

With rising tensions, all eyes are on the Federal Government and relevant stakeholders as organized labor mobilizes for mass action, demanding an immediate reversal of the telecom tariff hike.