….Give 72 hours ultimatum for reversal
By Attah Ede
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), on Thursday gave the Federal Government or its agents, 72 hours to immediately reverse the 50 per cent tariff increment by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) for the mobile telecommunication operators in Nigeria
The students fumed that failure of the Federal Government to act within the stipulated hours, will leave them with no other option than to go into the streets in their millions across Nigeria to protest the hike.
They called on the Federal Government to ensure immediate cancellation of the approval.
They further enjoined 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 masses.
This was contained in a statement issued by the Clerk of NANS’ Senate, Oladimeji Uthman, and made available to newsmen in Abuja.
According to them, 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 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.
“For years, NANS has advocated for affordable and inclusive access to digital infrastructure as a way to bridge the educational gap in Nigeria.
“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 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”, the statement said
