NLC fumes over telecom tariff hike, threatens shutdown by March 1

Nigerians are outraged as telecommunication companies proceed with a controversial 50% tariff hike, despite an ongoing review by a government-appointed committee.

In response, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) on Wednesday issued a stark ultimatum: reverse the increase or face a nationwide shutdown of telecom operations by March 1.

The move has ignited frustration among millions already battling economic hardship. For many, mobile data is not just a luxury but a lifeline—to work, to stay informed, to keep in touch with loved ones. Now, that access is at risk of becoming even more unaffordable.

The hike comes despite an earlier agreement between the NLC and the Federal Government to set up a 10-man committee to deliberate on the tariff increase before any decision was implemented. The committee was to submit its findings within two weeks.

However, telecom companies seemingly disregarded this process, proceeding unilaterally with the price adjustments.

In a strongly worded communique signed by NLC President Joe Ajaero and General Secretary Emma Ugboaja following a meeting in Lokoja, the union accused the telecom giants of betraying public trust.

“We see this as a blatant act of disregard for due process and a clear attempt to exploit Nigerians,” the statement read.

The NLC also slammed the Federal Government for failing to protect citizens from corporate exploitation, warning that if corrective action is not taken, organized labour would take matters into its own hands.

READ ALSO: TUC joins NLC in rejecting proposed tolls, telecom, electricity tariff hikes, warns of nationwide protests

As an initial step in resisting the hike, the NLC has called on Nigerian workers and the public to boycott MTN, Airtel, and Glo services for three hours daily—between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM—starting February 13 through the end of the month.

“All workers and citizens are urged to suspend the purchase of data from these companies, which has become one of their greatest tools for exploiting Nigerians,” the Congress declared.

Furthermore, the NLC is demanding a full audit of funds allegedly siphoned out of the country by telecom firms, calling for their immediate repatriation.

The tariff hike comes at a time Nigerians are grappling with skyrocketing costs of living, inflation, and economic uncertainty. For many, mobile data is not just for social media or entertainment but an essential tool for livelihood. Small business owners, freelancers, students, and remote workers are among those hardest hit.

While the NLC acknowledges the need for fiscal reforms, it insists that policies should ease the burden on workers, not deepen their financial struggles.

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