Agreement Reached on 50% Telecom Tariff Hike by FG and NLC
The Federal Government of Nigeria and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) have reached an agreement concerning the proposed 50% increase in telecommunications tariffs. Following discussions, both parties have decided to establish a 10-member committee tasked with reviewing the tariff hike and its implications. Consequently, the NLC has suspended its planned nationwide protest, which was scheduled for today, February 4, 2025.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) had previously approved the tariff increase, citing rising operational costs due to inflation, foreign exchange fluctuations, and higher energy expenses. The NLC, however, deemed the hike “insensitive” and “unjustifiable,” especially given the current economic challenges faced by Nigerians. The union had initially planned a nationwide protest to express its opposition to the increase.
During the meeting between the Federal Government and the NLC, it was agreed that the newly formed committee would work towards a fair and inclusive agreement on the tariff structure. The NLC emphasized the importance of stakeholder consultation and expressed its commitment to ensuring that any decisions made would not unduly burden Nigerian citizens.
The NLC has stated that it will await the outcome of the committee’s report before determining its next course of action. The union has also called on the government to alleviate the financial burden on Nigerians and hopes that the committee will recommend a reasonable reduction from the proposed 50% increase.