MTN Nigeria’s recent increase in data prices has sparked widespread frustration among subscribers. The most notable change is the sharp rise in the cost of its weekly 15GB data plan, which jumped from a promotional rate of N2,000 to N6,000. While customers are angry over the price hike, MTN insiders clarified that the plan originally cost N4,500 but was temporarily reduced to boost internet usage.
Rising Costs Behind the Decision
According to company sources, the discounted pricing was unsustainable due to rising operational expenses and financial losses. One insider explained, “The incentive was only meant to last for a short period, but we extended it. However, the costs have now reached a level where we had to make adjustments across all plans.”
MTN’s price revision aligns with the recently approved 50% increase in telecom tariffs. However, since MTN is the first to implement the change, its customers have taken to social media to voice their frustrations.
Customers Express Discontent
Many users on X (formerly Twitter) have condemned the sudden increase, with some highlighting the financial strain it places on consumers.
“Nigeria is already tough, and now MTN just decides to triple the cost of 15GB data overnight. That’s N24,000 per month—almost the country’s minimum wage! This is crazy,” tweeted @TheSilvapr.
Another user, @official_GZU, acknowledged the economic challenges behind the increase but pointed out that complaints wouldn’t change the situation. “This isn’t a random decision. It reflects real business realities. Telecom operators must operate profitably.”
Broader Data Plan Adjustments
Beyond the 15GB plan, MTN has raised prices on several other data packages:
- 1.8GB monthly plan – Now N1,500 (previously N1,000 for 1.5GB).
- 20GB plan – Increased to N7,500 from N5,500.
- 15GB plan – Now N6,500, up from N4,500.
- 1.5TB (90-day plan) – Jumped from N150,000 to N240,000.
- 600GB (90-day plan) – Increased from N75,000 to N120,000.
- 100GB (two/three-month plan) – Now 90GB for N25,000 (previously N20,000 for 100GB).
- 160GB plan – Reduced to 150GB but now costs N40,000 (previously N30,000).
Other Networks Yet to Follow
Currently, Airtel and Globacom have not adjusted their data prices. However, with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) granting approval for a 50% increase in telecom costs on January 20, all operators are expected to implement similar hikes soon.
Regulatory Approval Delayed Price Adjustments
Despite the NCC’s approval, telecom companies could not immediately adjust prices. Industry experts explained that every price modification requires regulatory review and approval before implementation.
Gbenga Adebayo, chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), stated that telecom operators would gradually roll out new pricing in line with NCC requirements. “We are following the regulatory process of filing, reviewing, and getting approvals. Over the next week, we will start seeing new rates from different providers,” he noted.
