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Nigeria’s Labour Union Clashes with Government Over Telecom Tariff Hike

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has vowed to shut down telecommunications services nationwide on March 1, 2025, in protest of a recent 50% tariff hike. The hike, announced by the Nigerian Communications Commission, has sparked outrage among consumers and labour unions.

In response, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has warned the NLC against taking any action that could compromise national security and public safety. The NSCDC has deployed operatives to protect telecom infrastructure and prevent any disruptions to services.

The Private Telecommunications and Communications Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PTECSSAN) and the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) have also criticized the NLC’s planned protest, arguing that it could harm the industry and disrupt essential services.

The NLC, however, remains resolute in its stance, with the Lagos State NLC Chairperson, Funmi Sessi, rejecting warnings from the NSCDC and vowing to push ahead with the planned shutdown.

The dispute highlights the growing tensions between labour unions, government agencies, and private sector operators in Nigeria’s telecommunications industry. As the standoff continues, concerns are mounting about the potential impact on consumers, businesses, and the broader economy.

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