It is deeply concerning that certain telecom operators have, without due consultation or consideration, raised their tariffs in the name of implementing a 50% increase approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). This increase has been introduced ahead of the scheduled negotiations between the Federal Government and organised labour on the matter. Such an action is not only provocative and insensitive, but it also adds further strain to a population already struggling with the economic hardships resulting from the removal of the oil subsidy since 2023.
Nigeria’s citizens are battling an unprecedented rise in the cost of living. According to recent reports, inflation in Nigeria has surged to over 24% in the past year, with food inflation alone exceeding 30%, placing a severe burden on families. The prices of essential goods and services are skyrocketing. A litre of petrol remains above N1000, and the exchange rate has fluctuated between N1500 and N1700 to the dollar. These skyrocketing costs are compounded by the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) plan to increase Point of Sale (POS) charges, which will inevitably be passed on to consumers, further squeezing the wallets of ordinary Nigerians.
In light of these conditions, it is worth asking: what is the purpose of government or leadership if not to protect and ease the burdens of its citizens? Is it merely to act as a vehicle for self-serving interests, leaving the people to bear the brunt of economic decisions? The current situation in Nigeria presents a stark contrast to the ideals of leadership, as we now witness a scenario where a few individuals benefit at the expense of the majority.
These arbitrary tariff increases, especially at a time when the country is experiencing widespread hardship, are unjustifiable. The actions of telecom operators, particularly MTN, in raising tariffs without waiting for the outcome of negotiations with organised labour, are nothing short of exploitative. This move reflects a disregard for the welfare of the Nigerian people and is a clear example of mercantilism at its worst.
Fortunately, the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) has stepped in, demonstrating its commitment to representing the interests of workers and citizens. Under the leadership of President Joe Ajaero, the NLC has called for a meeting and issued a strong communiqué, urging its affiliates and allies to mobilise against these unjust tariff hikes. The NLC has even gone a step further by directing Nigerian workers to boycott the services of these telecom operators, starting from Thursday.
In this context, it is important to remind the telecom companies of a basic truth: customers are kings. Nigeria, with its vast population of over 200 million people, represents one of the largest markets in the world for telecom services. Therefore, it is crucial that telecom companies treat their customers with the respect and consideration they deserve. If a significant portion of Nigerian workers and citizens were to heed the NLC’s call and boycott telecom services, the companies would face significant financial repercussions. While we do not wish for such an outcome, it is a possibility if these unjust tariff increases are allowed to continue unchecked.
It is also concerning that some of the telecom companies have reportedly dismissed the NLC’s actions as ineffective. If this is indeed the case, the NLC must demonstrate its strength and resolve. The union should stand firm and ensure that these companies understand the seriousness of their actions. This could be done by adhering strictly to the boycott directive and showing that the NLC has the power to both “bark and bite.”
The NLC’s communiqué has made it clear that these telecom companies must revert to the previous tariff structure until the committee tasked with reviewing the 50% increase has concluded its work and submitted a report. This is a reasonable and fair course of action that allows all parties to engage in constructive dialogue and reach an agreement that considers both the financial sustainability of telecom companies and the economic realities faced by Nigerian citizens.
The telecom operators, while asserting that their operating costs have risen over time, must recognise that Nigerians are also grappling with an economic environment that is far from easy. As inflation continues to erode purchasing power and more Nigerians fall deeper into poverty, it is clear that everyone, including corporate entities, must make sacrifices to ensure the sustainability of the system. It is not sustainable to inflict further pain on a population that is already struggling with the most basic of needs.
Therefore, we urge the telecom operators to exercise restraint in their pricing strategies. They should allow the committee handling the 50% tariff issue to complete its work and agree on a mutually acceptable solution. This approach would not only foster trust between the telecom companies, the government, and the people but also demonstrate that the operators are committed to the long-term well-being of their customers.
In conclusion, the current arbitrary tariff hikes are not only unjustifiable but are also harmful to an already suffering population. We call on the telecom operators to return to the negotiating table with the Federal Government and the NLC to find a more equitable solution. The people of Nigeria deserve better than to be continuously burdened by decisions that favour the few at the expense of the many. Let us not forget that in times of crisis, it is the collective efforts of all stakeholders that will ensure the well-being of the nation. The way forward is through dialogue, restraint, and above all, empathy for the Nigerian people.