MTN Nigeria has sharply increased its data tariffs, drawing widespread criticism from subscribers already struggling with rising living costs. The move follows the Nigerian Communications Commission’s (NCC) approval of a tariff adjustment for telecom operators, citing economic pressures and industry sustainability.
MTN confirmed the price hike in a response on X (formerly Twitter), explaining that the adjustment aims to improve service quality. However, many customers have dismissed this justification, arguing that the new rates are exploitative.
In January, the NCC approved a maximum 50% increase in tariffs, a compromise from the over 100% hike initially requested by some telecom firms. The commission stated that the decision aligns with its regulatory powers under the Nigerian Communications Act of 2003.
Despite this cap, MTN’s new pricing reflects an even steeper increase. The cost of a 15GB data plan has tripled from N2,000 to N6,000, while the 1.5TB plan jumped from N150,000 to N240,000. Other adjustments include the 100GB plan, now offering 90GB at N25,000—up from N20,000 for 100GB—and the 600GB plan, which now costs N120,000 for 480GB, up from N75,000.
The sharp increase has fueled outrage on social media, with users calling for boycotts and accusing MTN of pricing essential services out of reach. Many have expressed frustration over data consumption issues, claiming that even expensive plans deplete too quickly.
“This is outrageous,” one user wrote. “How can MTN wake up and triple data prices without warning? N6,000 for 15GB? That’s almost the country’s minimum wage just for internet access!”
Others pointed to MTN’s network issues, alleging that service disruptions are frequent despite rising costs.
As complaints pile up, the debate over fair pricing in Nigeria’s telecom sector continues, with many urging regulators to intervene.
