The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has strongly opposed the recent 50% increase in telecommunications tariffs announced by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), labelling the decision as “inconsiderate and unjustifiable.”
In a statement issued on Wednesday, NANS condemned the hike, warning that it would exacerbate the economic challenges already faced by Nigerians, particularly students.
Oladimeji Uthman, the Clerk of the Senate at NANS National Headquarters, called the tariff increase “abnormal,” especially in the context of the nation’s current socio-economic difficulties.
The association emphasised that the move would only make it harder for students to access affordable internet, deepening the digital divide and hindering efforts to bridge the educational gap in the country.
NANS has given the NCC and the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy a 72-hour ultimatum to reverse the decision or face a nationwide protest.
“This decision is highly inconsiderate, and it is unjustifiable given the already strained economic conditions faced by the average Nigerian,” the statement read.
The association acknowledged the operational difficulties faced by the telecommunications sector, including inflation and rising costs, but insisted that these challenges should not be passed on to students or the general public. NANS urged both the NCC and the ministry to seek alternative solutions that prioritise affordability and accessibility.
In a direct call to action, NANS demanded immediate dialogue with the NCC, the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy, and other relevant stakeholders to discuss a more equitable approach. “We call for a fair and balanced approach that puts the welfare of Nigerian students and citizens first,” the statement stated.
Should the NCC fail to address their demands within 72 hours, NANS has pledged to organise peaceful, nationwide protests. These protests will involve student leaders, unions, and civil society organisations, and will not only demand the reversal of the tariff hike but also advocate for more extensive consultations before policies affecting the public are enacted.
“NANS remains committed to peaceful advocacy and dialogue, but our patience is not without limits,” Uthman added, stressing the association’s determination to protect the future of Nigeria’s youth.
The group also called on well-meaning Nigerians, civil society organisations, and youth groups to join the movement, underscoring the importance of ensuring that policies impacting education and the welfare of young Nigerians are fair and inclusive.
“The future of Nigeria depends on the quality of education and opportunities available to its young people. We will not allow policies that threaten this future to prevail,” Uthman concluded.
