The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has given the Federal Government 72 hours to review the 50 percent increase in telecommunications tariff or risk a nationwide protest by over 40 million Nigerian students already going through untold hardship occasioned by the rising inflation.
It described the recently approved 50 percent increment in telecommunications tariff by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) as not only abnormal but inconsiderate and unjustifiable.
NANS in a statement signed by Comrade Oladimeji Uthman, the Clerk of the Senate, National Headquarters, made these known on Thursday.
Comrade Uthman stated, “This decision is not only abnormal but also highly inconsiderate and unjustifiable, especially in the current socio-economic climate that has placed an unbearable burden on Nigerian students and citizens.
“In an era where digital connectivity has become indispensable to education and daily life, such a steep increment will have far-reaching consequences for students. The proposed hike will escalate the cost of internet data and other telecommunication services, which are critical tools for learning, research, and academic activities.
“The harsh realities of Nigeria’s economic situation— marked by rising tuition fees, expensive transportation, increased accommodation costs, and general inflation—already weigh heavily on the shoulders of students and their families.”
NANS emphasised that adding a 50 percent tariff increment to these challenges amounts to an outright disregard for the welfare and progress of Nigerian students, saying that the association had over the years been at the forefront for affordable and inclusive access to digital infrastructure as a way to bridge the educational gap in Nigeria.
It stated that the NCC’s decision, if implemented, will further exacerbate the digital divide, excluding millions of students from accessing quality education and information as it raised concerns that the policy undermines the government’s commitment to youth development, innovation, and the digital economy agenda.
Acknowledging the challenges faced by the telecommunications industry, including inflation and operational costs, NANS cautioned that the burden of these challenges should not be transferred to the masses, especially Nigerian students and urged the NCC and the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy to explore alternative measures to address these issues without jeopardising the affordability and accessibility of telecommunications services.
“As stakeholders in the future of this nation, we call for immediate dialogue with the NCC, the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy, and relevant telecommunications stakeholders to discuss a fair and balanced approach that prioritises the welfare of Nigerian students and citizens. We believe that together, we can find a sustainable solution that balances industry growth with public interest.”
The statement added, “As the umbrella body of Nigerian students, NANS cannot sit idly by while policies detrimental to the collective interest of over 40 million Nigerian students are implemented without due consideration.
“We hereby issue a 72-hour ultimatum to the NCC to review this tariff increment and take decisive steps toward its reversal. Failure to heed this call will leave NANS with no other choice but to embark on a nationwide mass protest to demand justice and fairness for Nigerian students.
“We are prepared to mobilise all student leaders, unions, and organisations across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to peacefully demonstrate against this decision.”
It warned that the planned protests will not only demand the reversal of the tariff increment but also advocate for broader consultations with stakeholders before any future policies affecting the public are implemented, saying it remained committed to peaceful advocacy and dialogue as a means of resolving issues but with limited patience.
Edun Says Tariff Will Be Reviewed Periodically
Meanwhile, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, has told Nigerians to expect periodic tariff renewals in the telecommunications sector.
Speaking from the ongoing 2025 World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland, monitored on Arise News TV, Edun maintained that the tariff adjustment was essential for sustaining the sector amid rising operational costs and inflation.
Edun also urged telecommunication companies to enhance service delivery in line with the price increase.
“There has been inflation and rising costs, and that has to be reflected for the telcos. There has been a high cost of living that has to be reflected,” Edun said.
“I think the 50 percent tariff adjustment is a starting point. It’s about compromise, timing, and sequencing these necessary changes.
“We want telcos operating efficiently, terminating calls seamlessly, and delivering high-quality services. At the same time, we want them to foster innovation, create jobs, and contribute to GDP.
“The 50 percent tariff is a situation that will be looked at on a forward-looking basis. As we go forward, there will continue to be reviews, consultations, and discussions in this area.”
Edun reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fostering a thriving telecommunications sector that supports innovation, economic growth, and job creation.
The finance minister said the goal of the government is to improve the economy and attract investments across sectors.
By Apata Oyeniran @TheINDEPENDENT
