After meeting with the federal government, the NLC suspended its planned protest against the 50% telecom tariff hike. A committee will review the NCC’s study and submit recommendations in two weeks. The NLC warns that the increase is unfair to Nigerians struggling with inflation and economic hardship.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has suspended its planned nationwide protest against the recent 50% increase in telecom tariffs following a meeting with the Federal Government. The meeting, led by Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, aimed to maintain industrial peace while addressing public concerns over the tariff hike.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, explained that the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) had conducted a study that justified the increase. However, after extensive deliberations, both parties agreed to form a 10-member committee—comprising five representatives each from the government and the NLC—to review the study and provide recommendations within two weeks.
NLC President Joe Ajaero confirmed that the union would wait for the committee’s findings before deciding on its next course of action. Government officials present at the meeting included Minister of Communications Bosun Tijanni, Minister of Finance Wale Edun, NCC Executive Vice Chairman Aminu Maida, Minister of Labour Mohammed Maigari Dingyadi, Minister of Budget Atiku Bagudu, and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu.
The NLC had earlier announced a February 4, 2025, rally to protest the tariff hike, calling it an unfair burden on Nigerians already struggling with inflation, high fuel prices, and increased electricity costs. The union insists that the government must prioritize policies that support citizens rather than impose further financial strain.
