PTECSSAN commended the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) for suspending its nationwide protest over the 50 percent telecom tariff hike. The suspension followed intense discussions between NLC officials and government representatives, marking a key moment for stakeholders. The announcement on February 4, 2025, reflects progress in addressing concerns within the telecommunications sector.
Sectoral Insights and Support for the Hike
PTECSSAN Secretary-General, Abdullahi Okonu, emphasized the critical need for the tariff increase to meet the rising operational costs in the sector. Okonu, speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria, explained that resources necessary for maintaining telecommunications services had become costlier. The union argued that raising tariffs was the only sustainable way to ensure companies could meet operational costs without compromising profitability.
“The increase is essential to safeguard the sector from collapse,” Okonu remarked, highlighting concerns about job losses within the industry. “Telecom companies are faced with escalating costs, and reducing overheads, often by laying off employees, would be detrimental.”
Worker Protection and National Economic Impact
The PTECSSAN secretary-general further stressed the importance of protecting workers’ jobs and preventing the telecommunications sector’s collapse, which could ripple through other critical industries. “Telecommunications is integral to other sectors, and its failure would have widespread negative consequences,” he warned.
Echoing these sentiments, the Chairman of the Lagos State Council of the NLC, Mrs. Funmi Sessi, noted that while the planned protest had been mobilized, it was suspended after a meeting between NLC officials and federal government representatives. The suspension reflects a desire to work collaboratively toward resolving the issue amicably.
Government’s Commitment to Addressing Concerns
Sessi called on the federal government to ensure that the 50 percent increase would be adjusted, urging a “reasonable reduction” to lessen the burden on Nigerian consumers. She expressed hope that the newly formed committee, established after the dialogue, would work toward a balanced solution.
The government has committed to promptly addressing NLC concerns, ensuring negotiations proceed smoothly. It aims to resolve the dispute in two weeks. Discussions will focus on tariff hikes and broader telecommunications sector challenges.
Looking Ahead: Navigating the Hike’s Impact
The suspension offers temporary relief, but discussions on tariff hikes will continue, focusing on affordability and sustainability. NLC’s decision reflects a pragmatic approach to addressing Nigeria’s telecommunications concerns through dialogue with the government. Key issues will center on balancing accessibility, affordability, and sector sustainability for both consumers and workers, impacting national infrastructure.
Follow us on Socials: