The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has strongly urged the Federal Government to abandon any proposed increase in electricity tariffs, warning that such a move would trigger mass protests across the country. Additionally, the NLC has vowed to take decisive action against telecommunications companies if they fail to comply with the previously agreed 35% tariff adjustment. The labor union insists that the adjustment must align with the agreement reached with the government, rejecting the 50% hike earlier sanctioned by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). NLC’s Stand Against Electricity Tariff Increase The NLC has reaffirmed its commitment to opposing any unjustified increase in electricity tariffs. It has mobilized workers and citizens to resist what it describes as an unfair economic burden on Nigerians. According to labor leaders, any tariff hike will worsen the cost of living crisis, making basic utilities unaffordable for many households. Mobilization for February 4 Protest To further press its demands, the NLC has scheduled a nationwide demonstration for February 4, calling on Nigerians to unite in opposition to policies that increase economic hardship. The labor union believes that continued tariff hikes in essential services such as electricity and telecommunications are unacceptable and must be resisted. For further insights into electricity tariff regulations, visit Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC). Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
“Nigerian telecom tariffs are set to rise, but not by 100%. Minister Bosun Tijani clarifies ongoing NCC consultations to balance consumer protection and industry growth. Telecom Tariffs Set to Rise, But Not by 100% – Minister Clarifies Dr. Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, has announced an impending increase in telecom tariffs but assured the public it will not reach the 100% hike proposed by mobile network operators (MNOs). Following a stakeholder meeting with MNOs in Abuja, Tijani emphasized that the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is still in consultations and will announce the adjusted rates soon. NCC to Approve a Balanced Tariff Adjustment The minister clarified that while some telecom companies have requested a 100% tariff increase, the NCC will regulate the adjustment to ensure fairness for both consumers and service providers. “We aim to strike a balance—protecting citizens while allowing telecom companies to invest in the sector’s growth,” Tijani stated. He stressed the need for the telecommunications industry to strengthen regulatory frameworks and create an environment that fosters long-term development. Federal Government’s Role in Infrastructure Investment Tijani also highlighted that the government plans to take a more active role in funding infrastructure development rather than leaving it solely to private investors. “In the past, infrastructure investments were left to private companies who prioritized short- to medium-term returns,” he noted. The minister emphasized that the conversation should focus not only on tariff adjustments but also on “meaningful connectivity” — ensuring quality service and expanded coverage across Nigeria. NCC’s Assurance on Service Quality and Transparency The NCC’s Executive Vice Chairman, Dr. Aminu Maida, echoed Tijani’s points, stressing the focus on maintaining industry sustainability. Maida assured Nigerians that the exact percentage of the tariff increase would be announced after final consultations, expected within the next two weeks. He also called for simplified billing templates, stating: “We are moving away from complex pricing systems where bonuses and main rates differ, making it hard for Nigerians to track charges. Transparency will be a priority moving forward.” Telecom Operators Justify the Tariff Adjustment Airtel Nigeria’s CEO, Dinesh Balsingh, represented by media spokesperson Femi Adeniran, explained that rising operational and capital costs have necessitated the proposed tariff adjustments. “Higher tariffs are crucial to maintaining quality service, fostering digital inclusion, and ensuring long-term sustainability of the sector,” Balsingh emphasized. Conclusion While telecom tariffs in Nigeria are set to rise, the federal government and NCC assure the public that the increase will be reasonable and not as high as the 100% requested by service providers. Ongoing stakeholder engagements aim to balance quality service delivery with consumer protection. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
