NLC threatens March 1st countrywide shutdown of telecoms over tariff hike as MTN declares new price list for data plans
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has warned that if the telecommunications companies fail to revert to the old tariff by the end of February 2025, it will mobilize workers to shut-down their operations nationwide by March 1, 2025.
Arising from its Central Working Committee meeting in Lokoja, Kogi State, the labour movement said it will take the first step of resisting this arbitrary tariff hike by boycotting the services of MTN, AIRTEL, and GLO.
In a communique signed by NLC president, Joe Ajaero, and General Secretary, Emmanuel Ugboaja, the NLC demanded an immediate reversal of the tariff hike which took effect today – Thursday, February 13, 2025.
It said: “The CWC has directed that, beginning Thursday, February 13, 2025, Nigerian workers and other willing citizens shall boycott the services of MTN, AIRTEL, and GLO daily between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM until the end of February 2025.
The NLC communique read in part: “All workers and citizens are urged to suspend the purchase of data from these companies which has also become one of their greatest tools for exploiting Nigerian citizens.
“We also demand the repatriation of all funds siphoned out of the country by these companies.
“If the telecommunications companies fail to revert to the old tariff by the end of February 2025, a total shutdown of their operations nationwide will commence from March 1, 2025”.
The communique directed NLC State Councils to commence immediate sensitization and mobilization of their members and the general public within their jurisdictions.
It said all NLC affiliate Unions are also requested to mobilize their members across the country to observe electronic silence during the designated hours.
“We implore all of our civil society allies and other interested stakeholders are to join us in making this action effective”.
Meanwhile, MTN Nigeria has announced an increase in its data plan prices, following the Nigerian Communications Commission’s (NCC) approval of a 50% hike in telecom service costs on January 20, marking the first such increase in 11 years.
The decision to adjust data plan prices comes in response to rising operational costs that have been affecting telecom companies, prompting industry-wide price adjustments.
The hike according to NCC is intended to enable telecom operators to continue investing in infrastructure and innovation, which will ultimately benefit consumers with better services and connectivity, including improved network quality, enhanced customer service, and expanded coverage.