The Nigeria Labour Congress has announced plans for a nationwide protest against the federal government’s proposed 50% hike in telecommunication tariffs, with the demonstration set to take place on February 4, SAVANNAH NEWSNOW REPORTS.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has resolved to send a strong message to the government against policies that could further deepen the economic hardship faced by millions, following the decision reached at the ongoing National Administrative Council (NAC) meeting.
The NLC had previously rejected the proposed tariff hike on January 22, following its approval by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), with NLC President, Joe Ajaero, condemning the move as a betrayal of Nigerians in favor of corporate interests.
Ajaero criticized the decision’s timing, noting that Nigerian workers and the general public are already struggling with severe economic hardship. He highlighted that the average Nigerian worker spends about 10% of their salary on telecom services, and the recent hike could increase this to 15%—a cost that is unsustainable for many.
“It is shocking that the government swiftly approved a 50% tariff increase for telecom companies within a month, yet took nearly a year to approve the new minimum wage for workers,” Ajaero said. “This disparity highlights a troubling reality—the government seems more interested in protecting corporate profits than prioritizing the welfare of its citizens.”
