Nigeria’s major telecom operators (telcos) have rejected the call for mass action by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) over the recently approved 50% tariff hike, stating that the increase is necessary to prevent an industry-wide collapse.
Telcos Defend Tariff Increase
Representatives from MTN Nigeria, Airtel Nigeria, 9mobile, and the Association of Licensed Telecom Companies of Nigeria (ALTON) defended the price hike at a forum in Lagos over the weekend, emphasizing:
- The increase is vital to keep telecom infrastructure running and prevent economic disruptions.
- The tariff templates have been shared with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) for approval.
- The telecom sector should not be used to subsidize other industries.
Labour’s Opposition & Telcos’ Response
The NLC had threatened mass protests against the tariff hike, but telcos argue that:
- The National Union of Postal and Telecommunication Employees (NUPTE), an NLC affiliate, was not consulted before the protest directive.
- Keeping telecom services operational is crucial to the national economy.
- Labour’s demand poses a structural risk to the industry’s sustainability.
Implementation & Service Quality Commitments
- The new tariff regime will be rolled out within weeks after meeting regulatory requirements.
- Service quality improvements are expected within three months, but operators cite challenges such as fibre cuts and infrastructure costs.
Progress on USSD Debt Resolution
Telcos also noted significant progress in resolving USSD debt issues, with payments being made gradually.
Despite the controversy, telcos insist the tariff adjustment is in subscribers’ best interests to ensure reliable and sustainable service delivery across Nigeria.
