By Niyi Jacobs
Tensions are rising across Nigeria as citizens, labor unions, and student groups prepare for nationwide protests following the Nigerian Communications Commission’s (NCC) approval of a 50% increase in telecommunication tariffs.
Telecom giants like MTN and Airtel had initially lobbied for a 100% hike, citing surging operational costs fueled by the naira’s devaluation. In response, the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, announced a moderated 50% increase on January 20. The new rates, scheduled to take effect in February, will see call rates rise from N11 to N16.5 per minute, SMS charges climb from N4 to N6, and 1GB of data increase to N431.25.
The announcement has been met with widespread opposition. Labor groups, including the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), have described the timing as insensitive, given the prevailing economic hardships faced by Nigerians. The NLC has vowed to mobilize citizens to boycott telecom services, while the TUC labeled the tariff hike as “outrageous” and likely to exacerbate the already dire living conditions.
Speaking to Daily Post, activist Dr. Yunusa Tanko criticized the decision as “wrong timing, wrong action, and wrong choice,” warning it could cripple small businesses and further burden an economy already grappling with inflation and poverty. “Communication is the lifeblood of any nation,” Tanko stated, urging the NCC to reconsider and adopt a more gradual approach.
Similarly, students across the country have expressed frustration. The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) issued a 72-hour ultimatum for the government to reverse the hike, warning it would deepen the digital divide and restrict access to education.
Prominent activist Omoyele Sowore confirmed ongoing discussions with labor leaders to coordinate protests. “The only language this government understands is protest,” remarked Comrade Timothy Onyilo, highlighting the hike’s potential to hinder academic research and disrupt daily life.
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has called on telecom operators to prioritize service improvements, acknowledging their economic challenges but emphasizing consumer interests as paramount.
With protests looming, many Nigerians are gearing up to demand a reversal, fearing that the tariff increase will worsen the country’s economic struggles.
