The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a strong warning to the government, threatening a nationwide boycott of telecommunication services. This drastic action comes in response to the Nigerian Communications Commission’s approval of a 50% increase in telecom tariffs.
In a statement released on Wednesday, NLC President Joe Ajaero vehemently condemned the tariff hike, deeming it “unjust” and a severe burden on Nigerians already struggling with economic hardship.
“For a worker earning the current minimum wage of ₦70,000, this means an increase from ₦7,000 to a staggering ₦10,500 per month or 15 percent of his salary — a cost that is unsustainable,” Ajaero stated.
The NLC President criticized the government for prioritizing corporate interests over the welfare of its citizens. He pointed out the stark contrast between the swift approval of the tariff hike within a month and the prolonged delay in implementing the recently revised N70,000 minimum wage, which has taken nearly a year.
Ajaero emphasized that the labor union does not oppose a tariff review but strongly disagrees with the approved rate of increase. He called upon the government, the NCC, and the National Assembly to halt the implementation of the “ill-advised hike” and engage in meaningful dialogue to determine a more reasonable adjustment.
The NLC’s threat of a nationwide boycott underscores the growing discontent among Nigerians over the rising cost of living and the perceived indifference of the government to the plight of its citizens.