The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has suspended its planned nationwide protest, which was set for February 4, 2025, in response to the proposed 50% increase in telecommunications tariffs. This decision followed a high-level meeting with the Federal Government, where both sides agreed to set up a Joint Committee to address the concerns raised by the tariff hike.
In the meeting, key government officials, including the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, and the Minister of Labour and Employment, Alhaji Muhammadu Maigari, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the NLC. The agreement included the formation of a 10-man committee, with equal representation from the government and the NLC, tasked with resolving the issue.
The NLC had strongly opposed the proposed tariff hike, arguing that it would worsen the economic situation in Nigeria, already burdened by inflation and high living costs. They warned that the hike would negatively affect workers, businesses, especially in the informal sector, and everyday consumers who depend on affordable telecom services.
The committee, with a two-week deadline to deliver its recommendations by February 17, 2025, will engage in technical discussions to explore possible solutions to the tariff increase. In the meantime, both the NLC and the Federal Government have agreed to “stay-action,” meaning they will refrain from taking further steps to escalate the situation while the committee works.
The suspension of the protest shifts focus to the committee’s upcoming findings and proposals. Small business owners, students, and other stakeholders, particularly those in the informal economy, are closely watching for a transparent and fair resolution. Their hopes rest on the committee finding a balanced solution that addresses their concerns about telecom costs.
Source: TRIBUNE