PROTEST ON HOLD NLC Pauses Telecom Tariff Uprising As FG Announces Review Panel

PROTEST ON HOLD NLC Pauses Telecom Tariff Uprising As FG Announces Review Panel

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called off its planned nationwide protest against the recent 50% increase in telecom tariffs approved by the Federal Government.The decision came after a meeting between labour leaders and government…PROTEST ON HOLD NLC Pauses Telecom Tariff Uprising As FG Announces Review Panel

officials at the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation in Abuja on Monday.

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) had defended the tariff hike, citing rising operational costs due to inflation, foreign exchange fluctuations, and higher energy expenses. According to the regulator, the adjustment aligns with its mandate under the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003, to ensure the financial sustainability of the telecom sector.

However, the NLC strongly opposed the increase, deeming it excessive and unfair to consumers. It demanded a reduction to 5% and initially threatened a nationwide protest if the government failed to reconsider.

Following negotiations, both parties agreed to establish a committee comprising five representatives from each side to review the tariff structure. The committee has been given two weeks to submit its findings.

NLC President Joe Ajaero emphasized that the outcome of the review will determine the union’s next steps, including potential protests, service boycotts, or further engagements.

Meanwhile, the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) maintained that the tariff adjustment was necessary to sustain service quality and network expansion amid escalating costs. ALTON Chairman Gbenga Adebayo compared the increase to providing vital oxygen for the telecom sector’s survival.

The National Civil Society Council of Nigeria (NCSCN), which had initially supported the protest, also suspended its planned demonstrations after high-level talks with the NCC. The council has now set up a technical committee to conduct a forensic analysis of telecom operators’ operational costs, financial statements, and profit margins.

Their findings revealed that telecom tariffs had remained unchanged since 2013 despite inflation and rising energy costs, prompting a reassessment of their stance.

The government and labour representatives are expected to reconvene in two weeks to finalize a resolution on the telecom tariff review.

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