Telecom operators in Nigeria have raised concerns over the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC)’s planned protest, warning that it could worsen the challenges already facing the sector.
The warning came from the Chief Executive Officers of telecom companies and the Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecom Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Engr. Gbenga Adebayo, during a town hall meeting in Victoria Island on Saturday evening.
Adebayo stressed the urgent need to prevent further instability in the sector, stating that the industry is already struggling due to economic pressures. He warned that if the NLC proceeds with its protest, it could lead to severe consequences.
He stated, “The coming week will be crucial, but I trust that ongoing discussions at various levels will prevent an outcome we do not expect or desire. While I cannot say everything, I am aware that efforts are being made to ensure stability. That said, I sincerely hope no group will push the telecom sector to collapse. I hope Labour does not become the undertaker of the industry. If that happens, the consequences are clear; we will start heading downward. And once we do, recovery may become impossible.”
Adebayo explained that telecom operators had initially requested a 100% tariff increase based on economic studies but later settled for the federal government’s approved 50% adjustment. However, there are concerns that this figure might be reduced further, which he compared to giving a critically ill patient much less oxygen than they need to survive.
He said, “The proposed 50 liters is already a lifeline, allowing us to survive, recover, and contribute to employment and economic growth. Anything lower would be catastrophic—like a critically ill patient being denied the oxygen necessary to live beyond the next day.”
He urged the NLC and other stakeholders to prioritize the survival of the telecom industry, emphasizing that the sector plays a crucial role in the nation’s economy.
