The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has announced a nationwide protest on February 4, 2025, against the recent 50% telecom tariff hike. NLC President Joe Ajaero demands an immediate reversal, calling the increase exploitative. The union threatens further action, including a telecom boycott, if the government fails to intervene.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has declared a nationwide protest set for February 4, 2025, in response to the recent 50% increase in telecommunications tariffs. The labor union criticized the tariff hike as unfair and burdensome, arguing that it will worsen Nigerians' economic strain.
Following a National Administrative Council (NAC) meeting, the NLC released a statement rejecting the increase, which was approved by the Federal Government after telecom operators initially proposed a 100% hike. NLC President Joe Ajaero condemned the decision, stating that many Nigerians are already struggling with rising living costs, including fuel price hikes and electricity tariff increases.
To oppose the price adjustment, the NLC has directed all its affiliates to mobilize workers for the planned protest. The union is also calling on civil society organizations and the general public to join the demonstration, demanding that the government and telecom companies immediately suspend the tariff increase.
Ajaero warned that failure to reverse the hike could lead to further action, including a potential nationwide boycott of telecom services. He emphasized that the NLC remains committed to ensuring policies favor Nigerian citizens rather than corporate profits.
The announcement has sparked mixed reactions online, with some Nigerians expressing support, while others question the effectiveness of previous NLC protests. The union, however, insists that the demonstration is necessary to resist exploitative policies that impact millions of people.
