The House of Representatives Committee on Communications is in talks with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to prevent a nationwide protest scheduled for tomorrow over the recent 50% increase in telecom tariffs.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) recently approved the tariff hike, citing rising operational costs. In response, the NLC vowed to stage a mass protest, urging the Federal Government and National Assembly to reverse the increase. The union warned that the tariff hike would worsen economic hardship for Nigerians already struggling with high fuel prices, soaring food costs, and increased electricity tariffs.
Chairman of the House Committee on Communications, Peter Akpatason, said the panel is engaging both labour leaders and telecom operators to prevent a protest that could further impact citizens. He acknowledged the challenges facing the telecom sector, including insufficient funding for infrastructure upgrades to improve service quality.
Meanwhile, NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Mouka, confirmed that the commission is also making efforts to engage with the NLC regarding the new tariff.