MTN Nigeria’s recent data price hike has sparked widespread backlash, with customers expressing frustration over the sharp increase in costs. The telecommunications giant confirmed the adjustments on its official X (formerly Twitter) account, attributing the move to service improvements.
“A price increase has been implemented to enhance our services and serve you better, which is why you are seeing the updated amount,” MTN stated in response to a customer inquiry.
The hike follows regulatory approval from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), which in January allowed telecom operators to adjust their tariffs, citing “prevailing market conditions” as the reason for the decision.
NCC’s Position and Industry Adjustments
Reuben Mouka, the NCC spokesperson, clarified that the commission authorized a maximum increase of 50 per cent, rejecting operators’ initial request for a 100 per cent hike.
“The adjustment, capped at a maximum of 50 per cent of current tariffs, though lower than the over 100 per cent requested by some network operators, was arrived at taking into account ongoing industry reforms that will positively influence sustainability,” Mouka explained.
However, a review of MTN’s updated data plans reveals price surges that, in some cases, exceed the approved 50 per cent limit.
For instance, the 15GB bundle, which previously cost N2,000, now stands at N6,000, marking a 200 per cent increase. Similarly, the 1.5TB plan rose from N150,000 to N240,000. Other significant changes include:100GB bundle: Previously N20,000 for 100GB, now N25,000 for 90GB.600GB bundle: Previously N75,000, now N120,000 for 480GB.
Customers React: “This is Exploitation”
Many customers have criticize the hikes, with some questioning the justification behind such drastic increases. While MTN insists the adjustment is necessary for better service delivery, consumers argue that affordability remains a major concern in Nigeria’s struggling economy.
In Abuja, Africa Health Report spoke with residents who voiced their displeasure.
“This is pure exploitation,” said Emeka okafor, a business owner at the bustling Dutse Alhaji Monday Market who depends on mobile data for transactions. “How can a 15GB plan surge from N2,000 to N6,000? This is outrageous.”
David Ewama, a student, lamented the impact on young people. “We depend on data for education and communication. These prices make it almost impossible to stay connected.”
Another respondent, Mr. Bashir, questioned the rationale behind the increase. “They claim it’s for better service, but we’ve seen no improvements. Instead, network quality has been getting worse.”
With outrage mounting, consumer rights groups are calling for further regulatory intervention, urging the NCC to investigate whether the price adjustments violate the approved limits. As debates continue, many Nigerians are left wondering whether affordable internet access is becoming a luxury.
