Labour Union Decries Revenue Focus Over Citizen Welfare
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has criticized the Federal Government for prioritizing revenue generation over citizens’ welfare. This follows the Nigerian Communications Commission’s (NCC) approval of a 50% tariff increase for telecommunications services. The hike, impacting call and message charges by operators like MTN and Airtel, has sparked widespread public outrage.
NLC President Joseph Ajaero expressed frustration with the government’s perceived bias toward telecom companies during an interview on Arise TV. He argued that the tariff increase unfairly burdens ordinary Nigerians already struggling with rising costs. Ajaero accused the government of acting as an advocate for telecom firms rather than fulfilling its regulatory responsibilities.
Increased Costs Deepen Hardship
Ajaero highlighted the dire implications of the tariff hike for low-income earners, many of whom struggle to meet basic needs on Nigeria’s minimum wage of less than $50 per month. He emphasized that the increase would disproportionately affect the poor, pushing more people into poverty.
“For someone earning N70,000 monthly, dedicating over N10,000 to telecom expenses is unrealistic. When you add housing, transportation, and food, it becomes clear that this policy is pushing Nigerians to the edge,” he said. The Labour leader also criticized the government’s lack of balance in regulating corporate interests and addressing citizens’ economic realities.
Calls for Local Manufacturing to Reduce Costs
The NLC chief pointed out the heavy reliance on imported telecommunications equipment as a key driver of operational costs. He urged the government to encourage local manufacturing to reduce dependence on imports and bring down costs.
“Why are we still importing cables and meters when these items can be produced locally? This reliance on imports inflates costs, and the government passes this burden to Nigerians instead of exploring sustainable alternatives,” Ajaero said.
Protests and Pushback Against the Tariff Hike
The NLC, alongside consumer advocacy groups, has vowed to oppose the tariff increase through collective action. On Wednesday, the union hinted at the possibility of a nationwide telecom boycott to pressure the government and NCC to reconsider the hike.
The National Association of Telecommunications Subscribers has also joined the protest, calling for the tariff hike to be reduced to a manageable 10%. The association is set to meet with the telecom regulator to push for this adjustment.
Labour Union Warns Against Neglecting Citizens
Ajaero concluded by warning that the government’s current policies could erode public trust and deepen economic inequality. “Policymakers need to rethink their priorities and ensure Nigerians are not left bearing the brunt of these decisions. It’s time for the government to act as a true regulator and protect its citizens,” he stated.
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