Nigerian subscribers are increasingly moving to alternative network providers following MTN Nigeria’s decision to raise data and SMS tariffs by up to 50%. The telecom company recently implemented the price adjustment, triggering widespread dissatisfaction.
Users reported significant increases in data bundle costs, with the 15GB plan rising from N4,500 to N6,500 and the 20GB plan jumping from N5,500 to N7,500. Even larger plans saw steep hikes, such as the 1.5TB 90-day package surging from N150,000 to N240,000. SMS rates also increased from N4 to N6 per message.
The development has led to frustration, with social media users voicing their concerns. One user, @not_ahmedjunior, lamented, “It’s nearly impossible for the average Nigerian to progress. The 15GB data plan that used to cost N2,000 is now N6,000.” Another, @official_GZU, attributed the increase to economic challenges, noting, “Prices are influenced by inflation, currency devaluation, and market forces.”
Additionally, reports indicate that MTN has discontinued its “Hot Deals” package (*121#), which previously offered discounted data bundles. The price hike comes despite the federal government approving a 50% increase, significantly lower than MTN’s initial 150% proposal, which the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) rejected. Subscribers were also taken aback as the adjustment took effect earlier than expected, even as discussions with the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) were ongoing.
Amid the backlash, some users have called for a boycott of MTN. One subscriber, Khan, criticized the company, stating, “I think it’s high time we boycotted MTN. Their network is terrible, and their data plans are a rip-off.” Another, Silva, tweeted, “Nigeria is a very difficult place to live in, honestly. MTN waking up one day to increase their weekly 15GB data from 2K to 6K without prior warning is textbook insanity.”
Others have pointed fingers at the government’s regulatory stance, arguing that the lack of price control has allowed telecom providers to make arbitrary changes. “I won’t even blame MTN,” @neefenawti tweeted. “In a country where the president said he does not believe in price control, what do you expect?”
MTN has yet to release an official statement explaining the sudden increase, leaving many subscribers feeling shortchanged. With rival networks like Airtel, Globacom, and 9mobile yet to announce similar hikes, subscribers are closely monitoring whether MTN’s move will impact market competition or lead to further shifts in customer loyalty. Meanwhile, many Nigerians are calling for regulatory intervention to ensure fairness and affordability in telecom pricing.
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