The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has rejected the Nigerian Communications Commission’s (NCC) decision to increase telecommunications tariffs by 50%, describing it as “unjustifiable” and “insensitive” to the current economic realities in the country.
In a statement released on Wednesday by Oladimeji Uthman, Clerk of the Senate at NANS National Headquarters, the student body gave the NCC and the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy a 72-hour ultimatum to reverse the decision or face nationwide protests.
“This decision is not only abnormal but also highly inconsiderate,” the statement read. NANS argued that such a move would worsen the economic struggles of Nigerians, especially students, who heavily rely on affordable internet for educational purposes.
Impact on Students and Education
NANS highlighted the critical role of affordable internet access in bridging Nigeria’s educational gap. The association warned that the tariff hike would push millions of students further away from accessing quality education, thereby deepening the country’s digital divide.
According to Uthman, many Nigerian students rely on mobile data to access online lectures, research materials, and virtual classrooms. Increasing telecom costs, he said, could force students to abandon these essential tools, leading to a decline in academic performance.
“This policy will have a ripple effect on education, employment opportunities, and the overall well-being of young Nigerians,” Uthman noted.
Call for Alternative Solutions
While acknowledging the financial challenges faced by telecommunications companies, such as inflation and rising operational costs, NANS argued that these burdens should not be shifted onto the public. Instead, it called on the NCC to explore alternative strategies that would ensure affordability without compromising service quality.
“We understand the operational difficulties within the telecom sector, but placing the burden on students and ordinary Nigerians is unacceptable,” the statement said.
NANS urged the government and regulatory bodies to engage in dialogue with key stakeholders, including students, to devise a balanced approach.
Plans for Protests
If the NCC fails to meet its demands within 72 hours, NANS warned that it would mobilize a nationwide peaceful protest. The protest, according to the association, will involve student leaders, unions, and civil society organizations.
“Our protests will not only demand a reversal of this tariff hike but will also advocate for better consultation with stakeholders before introducing policies that impact the public,” Uthman stated.
The student body assured Nigerians that its protests would remain peaceful but stressed that its patience has limits.
Broader Call to Action
NANS also called on civil society groups, youth organizations, and concerned Nigerians to join its fight against policies it described as harmful to the country’s future.
“The future of Nigeria depends on the opportunities available to its youth. We cannot allow policies that jeopardize this future to prevail,” the statement concluded.
Background
The proposed tariff increase comes at a time when many Nigerians are grappling with rising inflation, fuel price hikes, and economic uncertainty. Critics argue that the timing of the decision shows a lack of sensitivity to the plight of ordinary citizens.
The NCC had justified the proposed increment, citing operational costs and the need to maintain service quality. However, stakeholders, including NANS, insist that such policies should not come at the expense of accessibility and affordability for Nigerians.
Public Reactions
The announcement has sparked widespread criticism on social media, with many Nigerians expressing anger over the NCC’s decision. Advocacy groups have also weighed in, supporting NANS’ position and urging the government to prioritize the welfare of its citizens over corporate interests.
As the 72-hour deadline approaches, all eyes will be on the NCC and the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy to see whether they will heed NANS’ demands or face mass protests across the country.
