07 February 2025

Consumer associations and trade unions have spoken up to contest the 50% increase in telecom tariffs approved on 20 January by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).

They believe that this measure is insensitive and unwelcome since workers and the population are facing economic difficulties.
According to Joe Ajaero, president of the Nigerian Trade Union Congress (NLC), “an average Nigerian worker already spends about 10% of his salary on telecommunications costs. For a worker earning the current minimum wage of 70,000 naira, this means an increase from 7,000 to 10,500 naira per month, or 15% of his salary. An unsustainable cost.”

The protest comes as telecom operators have also complained about rising operational costs, due to the depreciation of the naira against international currencies and the surge in the price of hydrocarbons, particularly diesel used to power telecom towers. The operators had asked for a 100% increase to continue providing quality services.

“The increase in operational costs has had a significant impact on our results. This adjustment is crucial for us to continue to invest in network expansion, improve service quality and drive innovation in the sector,” said Karl Teniola, CEO of MTN Nigeria.

Trade unions and consumer associations are calling on the Nigerian government and the NCC to suspend the increase and engage in dialogue to find a fairer solution.