The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a strong warning to telecommunications companies over the recent 50% hike in data tariffs, demanding an immediate reversal to avoid nationwide shutdown of their operations starting March 1, 2025.
This development comes despite an earlier agreement between the NLC, the Federal Government, and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to hold off on any tariff increase until a 10-man committee, comprising representatives from both the government and labour, concluded deliberations.
However, some telecom operators implemented the 50% hike on February 11, sparking outrage from the NLC, which described the move as a “betrayal of trust” and a “direct slap on the Nigerian people.”
In response, the NLC has directed Nigerian workers and citizens to boycott the services of MTN, Airtel, and Glo daily between 11:00 am and 2:00 pm from February 13 until the end of the month. The labour union warned that if the hike is not reversed by February 29, a full-scale shutdown of telecom operations nationwide will commence on March 1.
The communique issued after the NLC’s Central Working Committee (CWC) meeting in Lokoja, Kogi State, also urged workers and citizens to halt the purchase of data from these companies. State councils and union affiliates have been tasked with mobilizing members and sensitizing the public.
In reaction, telecom operators have pushed back, warning that any action by labour to shut down services could amount to a treasonable felony. The Association of Licensed Telecom Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) defended the price hike, citing rising operational costs, inflation, and the need for infrastructure investment, particularly in rural areas.
Chairman of ALTON, Engr. Gbenga Adebayo, argued that telecom services cannot remain artificially cheap while other sectors experience price increases, warning that sustained low tariffs could lead to deteriorating service quality and collapse of the industry.
Meanwhile, the National Association of Telecom Subscribers (NATCOMS) criticized the NCC for failing to prevent the tariff hike, calling for immediate sanctions against the operators.
With tensions rising, the telecom industry faces an uncertain period ahead as both sides remain firm in their positions, leaving millions of Nigerians caught in the crossfire.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
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