MTN Nigeria has significantly raised the cost of its data subscriptions following the Nigerian Communications Commission’s (NCC) recent tariff adjustment. However, many of the new prices exceed the regulator’s approved 50% increase, leading to widespread criticism from subscribers.
A review of the updated plans reveals that the 1.8GB monthly bundle now costs ₦1,500, replacing the previous 1.5GB plan priced at ₦1,000. The 15GB plan has jumped from ₦4,500 to ₦6,500, while the 20GB bundle now sells for ₦7,500, up from ₦5,500. Additionally, SMS charges have increased from ₦4 to ₦6 across major networks.
Some data plans have seen even steeper hikes. The 15GB weekly plan, previously ₦2,000, now costs ₦6,000—a 200% increase. Similarly, the 100GB bundle was replaced with a 90GB plan priced at ₦25,000, reflecting a 25% rise. The 600GB package, which used to cost ₦75,000, has been adjusted to ₦120,000 for 480GB, marking a 60% increase.
These price changes have sparked frustration among customers, with many taking to social media to express their dissatisfaction. A user on X (formerly Twitter), @limasyre, pointed out the discrepancy: “A 50% increase should put the 15GB plan at ₦3,000, but MTN raised it from ₦2,000 to ₦6,000. I’m not buying that plan again.” Another user, @officialdey1, warned that the network could lose customers over the price hike.
NCC approved 50% tarriff hike on telecoms in Nigeria. A price increase from 2k to 6k for the same 15GB weekly data plan is a 200% increase. A 50% hike is supposed to 3k. Good luck to all the parties involved. As for me, I’m not buying that plan again. MTN well-done.
— Speech to the progress-toward (@limasyre) February 11, 2025
The NCC had approved a tariff adjustment in January, citing rising operational costs in the telecom sector. The commission’s Public Affairs Director, Reuben Muoka, clarified that the increase was capped at 50%, despite some operators requesting over 100%.
However, the National Association of Telecommunications Subscribers (NATCOMS) has vowed to challenge the price increase in court, arguing that it was implemented without proper consumer consultation. Meanwhile, the Presidency defended the NCC’s approval, stating that operators were not required to raise prices by the full 50% and could adjust rates based on their business needs.
Credit: TechEconomy (Text Excluding Headline)
