Nigeria’s leading telecom provider, MTN, has begun implementing a 50% increase in data prices, following approval from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) in January.
What’s Changing?
- Call and SMS rates remain unchanged for now.
- Data plans have been adjusted, with price hikes across different bundles.
- The update is being rolled out gradually, meaning not all plans have been adjusted yet.
New MTN Data Prices
- 1.5GB (previously ₦1,000) → Now 1.8GB for ₦1,500
- 15GB (previously ₦4,500) → Now ₦6,500
- 20GB (previously ₦5,500) → Now ₦7,500
- 600GB (90-day plan) → Increased from ₦75,000 to ₦120,000
- 1.5TB (90-day plan) → Now ₦240,000, up from ₦150,000
Why the Price Hike?
The NCC cited rising operational costs and the need for long-term sustainability in the telecom sector as the reasons behind the increase. The commission said the decision aligns with its mandate under the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003.
Backlash from Subscribers
The National Association of Telecommunications Subscribers (NATCOMS) has strongly opposed the tariff hike, calling for a reduction to 10% instead of 50%. The group has even threatened legal action if the price increase is not reversed.
What This Means for You
- Higher costs for data users, especially those on larger plans.
- Potential shift towards alternative providers or Wi-Fi solutions.
- A possible legal battle between consumer advocacy groups and telecom regulators.
The new prices are rolling out gradually, so customers should expect further adjustments in the coming weeks.