The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has strongly condemned the 50% telecom tariff hike approved by the Federal Government, describing it as an additional burden on the already struggling masses.

In a statement issued in Abuja, NLC President Comrade Joe Ajaero expressed outrage at the approval by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), noting that it comes at a time when Nigerian workers and citizens are facing severe economic hardship.

Ajaero warned that workers and citizens will unite to oppose the unjustifiable increase, calling for collective action, including the possibility of a nationwide boycott of telecom services to force a reversal of the hike. He emphasized that this action is necessary for the dignity, rights, and survival of the people.

He criticized the government’s decision as a direct attack on workers’ welfare, accusing it of abandoning the public in favor of corporate interests. Ajaero pointed out that telecom services, essential for communication, work, and access to information, already consume a significant portion of an average Nigerian worker’s income. He noted that a worker earning the minimum wage of N70,000 would now face an increase from N7,000 to N10,500 in telecom costs—amounting to 15% of their salary.

Ajaero further expressed shock that the government approved the telecom hike within a month but took nearly a year to approve a minimum wage increase, despite the rising cost of living and inflation. He argued that this disparity shows the government’s alignment with corporate profits over the well-being of workers and citizens.

“The government’s actions raise questions: When will it stand for the people it is supposed to protect? When will the National Assembly hold the executive accountable for policies that harm the majority?” Ajaero asked.

While acknowledging the possibility of a tariff review, the NLC president opposed the steep 50% increase and urged the Federal Government, the NCC, and the National Assembly to halt its implementation and engage in meaningful dialogue. He suggested that if a hike is necessary, it should be more reasonable.

Ajaero concluded by reaffirming the NLC’s commitment to defending the interests of Nigerian workers and citizens. He vowed that the organization would resist policies that worsen poverty and inequality, urging all Nigerians to reject the hike and join in collective action to demand that the government prioritize citizens’ welfare over corporate interests.