NLC threatens Strike on March 1 over Tariff hike

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has warned that it will embark on a nationwide strike starting March 1, 2025, if telecom operators do not revert to the old tariff structure.

This follows a recent 50% increase in telecom charges, which the union claims was implemented without due process.

As a prelude to the strike, the NLC has directed Nigerians to boycott major telecom providers—including MTN, Glo, and Airtel—daily between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, beginning February 13. The union is also demanding the repatriation of funds allegedly siphoned abroad by these companies.

The Central Working Committee of the NLC has expressed strong opposition to the tariff hike, noting that it was introduced despite an earlier agreement with the Nigerian government and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). A 10-man committee had been set up to review the matter within two weeks before any final decision was to be made.

The National Association of Telecoms Subscribers of Nigeria has also rejected the increase, calling for sanctions against the telecom providers for allegedly bypassing the agreed review process.

As of now, telecom companies have yet to respond to the NLC’s demands or the looming strike threat.