Telecom tariff hike: NANS threatens mass protest, gives ultimatum

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has totally condemned the action of the Federal Government approving a 50 per cent tariff increment through the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) for the mobile telecommunication operators in the country, calling for the immediate cancellation of the approval.

The students’ body pointed out that increasing the telecom tariff at this critical state of the country’s economy, where the majority of people, including Nigerian students, are really suffering because of the high costs of goods and services, is not only abnormal but highly inconsiderate and inhuman.

The students therefore asked for the reversal of the proposed tariff by the Federal Government or its agents within the next 72 hours, failing which they will take to the streets in their millions across Nigeria to protest the hike.

NANS gave this position on Thursday in a statement issued by the Clerk of its Senate, Oladimeji Uthman, and made available to the Nigerian Tribune.

According to NANS, increasing the telecom tariff in this era, where digital connectivity has become indispensable to education and daily life, will greatly affect particularly the students in many negative ways.

The students highlighted some of the consequences, saying, “The proposed hike will certainly escalate the cost of internet data and other telecommunication services, which are critical tools for learning, research, and academic activities.
“Already, the harsh realities of Nigeria’s economic situation—marked by rising tuition fees, expensive transportation, increased accommodation costs, and general inflation—have weighed heavily on the shoulders of students and their families.
“So, adding a 50% telecom tariff increment to these challenges amounts to an outright disregard for the welfare and progress of Nigerian students.”

Explaining further, the students said, “For years, NANS has advocated for affordable and inclusive access to digital infrastructure as a way to bridge the educational gap in Nigeria.

“So, the NCC’s decision, if implemented, will exacerbate the digital divide, excluding millions of students from accessing quality education and information.

“To us, we believe strongly that this policy will undermine the government’s commitment to youth development, innovation, and the digital economy agenda.

“Though, while we acknowledge the challenges faced by the telecommunications industry, including inflation and operational costs, we strongly believe that the burden of these challenges should not be transferred to the masses, especially Nigerian students.

“We therefore urge the NCC and the Ministry of Digital Economy to explore alternative measures to address these issues without jeopardising the affordability and accessibility of telecommunication services to students and the general masses.

“We also call on all well-meaning Nigerians, civil society organisations, and youth groups to prepare to join us in this struggle against this policy and any others threatening our progress and well-being as the future of Nigeria depends on the quality of education and opportunities available to its young people.”

 READ MORE FROM: NIGERIAN TRIBUNE