The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has announced plans to stage a nationwide mass protest on Tuesday, 4th February 2025, in opposition to the 50% increase in telecommunications tariffs recently approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).

According to a communiqué signed by NLC President Joe Ajaero on Wednesday, the decision was taken at an emergency meeting of the union’s National Administrative Council (NAC).

The NLC described the tariff hike as an unfair burden on a struggling population, which is already grappling with a minimum wage of only ₦70,000, soaring fuel prices, high food costs, rising electricity tariffs, and persistent inflation. The protest, it said, would serve as a warning against implementing such policies, which further strain the livelihoods of ordinary Nigerians.

The Congress has directed its affiliates and state councils to commence full-scale mobilisation for the rally, urging civil society allies to join the cause. It also called on Nigerian workers, informal sector operators, and the general public to unite against what it termed an unjust policy.

The NLC’s NAC categorically rejected the 50% tariff hike, condemning the NCC’s decision as harsh and insensitive.

“This increase is unjustifiable and amounts to a direct assault on Nigerian workers and the general public, who are already enduring severe economic hardship caused by government policies beyond their control,” the communiqué stated.

The NLC demanded an immediate reversal of the tariff hike and urged the Federal Government, the NCC, and the National Assembly to engage in meaningful dialogue with key stakeholders to reassess the decision in light of current economic realities.

It further warned that if the demands were not met, it would escalate its actions, including a nationwide boycott of telecommunication services and other forms of mass protest, potentially culminating in the withdrawal of workers’ services.

“The Nigeria Labour Congress remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting Nigerian workers and citizens from exploitative economic policies. We will not relent in resisting policies that undermine the welfare and dignity of our people. We must stand united against any measure that prioritises corporate profits over the well-being of Nigerians,” the statement concluded.

On 20th January, the NCC announced its approval of a 50% tariff increase for telecom operators. In a statement, NCC spokesperson Reuben Muoka explained that while some operators had requested an increase of over 100%, the commission opted for a lower adjustment to balance industry sustainability with consumer interests.

The regulator justified the increase under Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003, which empowers it to regulate and approve tariff rates. It also noted that the new pricing would remain within the bands stipulated in the 2013 NCC Cost Study and be reviewed on a case-by-case basis under the 2024 NCC Guidance on Tariff Simplification.