The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called on Nigerians to prepare for a nationwide boycott of telecom services in response to the government’s recent decision to approve a 50% increase in telecommunications tariffs.
In a statement released Wednesday by its President, Joe Ajaero, the NLC condemned this tariff increase, labelling it as an unfair burden on economically struggling citizens.
The labour union voiced concerns about the timing of the increase, noting that it occurs amid soaring inflation and diminishing purchasing power.
“The Nigeria Labour Congress expresses its unequivocal condemnation of the government’s recent approval of a 50% increase in telecommunication tariffs through the Nigerian Communications Commission.
“This decision, coming at a time when Nigerian workers and the masses are grappling with unprecedented economic hardship, is a clear assault on their welfare and an abandonment of the people to corporate fat cats.”
The NLC president stressed that telecommunication services have become essential, with the average Nigerian worker dedicating around 10% of their salary to telecom expenses.
“Telecommunication services are essential for daily communication, work, and access to information. Yet, an average Nigerian worker spends approximately 10% of their wages on telecom charges.
“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% of his salary — a cost that is unsustainable.” He said.
Ajaero criticised the government for hastily approving the tariff increase within a month while it took almost a year to implement the recently adjusted minimum wage, arguing that this inconsistency highlights the government’s preference for corporate interests over the well-being of its citizens.
Nevertheless, he encouraged Nigerians to oppose the tariff increase and prepare for united action, including a mass boycott of telecom services to urge a reversal of the hike.
