As the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) prepares for a nationwide protest on February 4, 2025, against the recently approved 50% increase in telecom tariffs, a coalition of civil society organizations (CSOs) has criticized the move, arguing that the hike is essential for the sustainability of the telecom sector.
The coalition, under the aegis of the Coalition of Human Rights Monitoring Groups (CHRMG), issued a statement on Monday opposing the NLC’s planned demonstration. The CSOs described the tariff adjustment as a necessary step to prevent the collapse of the telecom industry, citing economic realities and industry reforms.
The NLC has strongly opposed the tariff hike, which was approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). Instead, the labour body has proposed a more modest 5% increase. In a bid to resist the tariff adjustment, the NLC has written to its affiliate unions and state councils, urging full mobilization of workers and allies for the February 4 protest.
Meanwhile, telecom operators, under the Association of Licensed Telecom Operators in Nigeria (ALTON), have warned that the protest could worsen the already fragile state of the industry.
In a statement signed by its leader, Dr. Gabriel Agibi, CHRMG argued that the NLC’s position was misguided, given the current economic climate. The group highlighted that with inflation at 34.8%, a nearly 300% increase from 8.5% in 2013—the last time telecom tariffs were reviewed—the adjustment is necessary to reflect market realities.
According to the CSOs, the NCC’s decision was based on industry reforms aimed at ensuring sustainability and competitiveness. They noted that compared to other African countries, Nigeria’s telecom tariffs remain relatively low.
“For instance, in South Africa, the average cost of 1GB of data is around ₦1,200, while in Ghana, it is around ₦1,500. In Nigeria, the average cost is approximately ₦500. The tariff hike will help bridge this gap, allowing telecom operators to invest in infrastructure and improve service quality,” the statement read.
The group further emphasized that the tariff increase aligns with the federal government’s digital economy agenda, which seeks to drive economic growth through technology. It argued that higher revenues would enable telecom operators to expand their networks, enhance internet speeds, and introduce new digital services.
Calling on the NLC to reconsider its stance, the CSOs warned that the planned protest could have unintended consequences, including economic setbacks and harm to workers.
“We urge the NLC to engage in constructive dialogue with the NCC and other stakeholders rather than take actions that may negatively impact the very people it seeks to protect,” the statement added.
The coalition also encouraged Nigerians to view the tariff hike as a long-term investment in the nation’s digital future, arguing that a stronger telecom sector would create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and improve overall quality of life.
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