The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has announced plans to stage a nationwide protest on February 4 over the recent increase in telecom tariffs. The union argues that the hike, which affects call and data charges, will place an additional financial burden on Nigerians already struggling with economic hardship.
In a statement on Tuesday, NLC President Joe Ajaero criticized the tariff increase, calling it an unjustified move that further worsens the cost of living crisis. He emphasized that the government and telecom operators must reconsider the hike, warning that failure to reverse it could lead to further industrial actions.
According to the NLC, the protest will take place across major cities in Nigeria, with workers, students, and civil society groups expected to participate. The union has also called on the National Communications Commission (NCC) to intervene and address what it describes as exploitative pricing in the telecom sector.
Telecom operators, however, defend the tariff adjustment, citing rising operational costs and the need to maintain service quality. They argue that the increase aligns with regulatory approvals and market realities, but many Nigerians remain opposed to the move.
With tensions rising, the February 4 protest is expected to draw widespread attention, potentially disrupting economic activities. The NLC has vowed to sustain the demonstrations until authorities take decisive action to reverse the tariff hike.
