The recent 50% increase in telephone charges authorised by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has been unanimously rejected by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), and Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG).
Position of the NLC: NLC President Joe Ajaero denounced the pricing rise as a “clear assault on workers’ welfare,” stressing that Nigerian workers, who already devote a sizable amount of their income to telecom services, will be disproportionately impacted.
He emphasised that the monthly telecom cost would increase from ₦7,000 to ₦10,500, or 15% of a worker’s earnings if they were paid the present minimum wage of ₦70,000. Ajaero called on the NCC and the government to stop the hike’s implementation and hold talks to look at a more sensible rise.
TUC’s Response: TUC President Festus Osifo referred to the tariff hike as “one hike too many,” urging the government to reevaluate the regular hikes in basic services, particularly in difficult economic circumstances.
CNG’s Reaction: The Coalition of Northern Groups called the rate increase an “assault on the dignity and livelihoods” of Nigerians and denounced it. The NCC and the Federal Ministry of Communications were chastised by National Coordinator Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi for their insensitivity, particularly at a time when many Nigerians are facing unemployment and hyperinflation. In addition to calling for the resignation or expulsion of the Minister of Communications and the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, the CNG urged that the pricing hike be immediately suspended.
Telecom Operators’ Perspective: The Association of Licensed Telecom Companies of Nigeria (ALTON), on the other hand, applauded the NCC’s approval of the 50% pricing rise. Gbenga Adebayo, the chairman of ALTON, characterised it as a move in the right direction for the telecom industry’s rehabilitation after experiencing financial difficulties. Dinesh Balsingh, the CEO of Airtel Nigeria, also conveyed gratitude for the tariff adjustment, saying it will allow for further investments in network infrastructure and better services.
Regulatory Oversight: The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) stressed that pricing changes should result in noticeable service improvements and encouraged telecom customers to report any unfair practices. The FCCPC pledged to keep an eye on the effects of the tariff adjustments to guarantee adherence to legal requirements.
