Shocking MTN Data Price Hike: Nigerians Face Up to 200% Increase

Shocking MTN Data Price Hike: Nigerians Face Up to 200% Increase

Nigerians are facing a significant increase in the cost of mobile data as MTN Nigeria, one of the country’s largest telecom providers, has hiked its subscription prices. Some data bundles now cost up to 200% more, leaving users frustrated.

The price adjustments were confirmed in a response shared on MTN’s official X (formerly Twitter) account.

MTN Confirms Price Increase

Replying to a customer’s inquiry, MTN stated: “Y’ello! Thanks for stopping by. We apologise for any inconvenience and delayed response. A price increase has been implemented to enhance our services and serve you better, which is why you are seeing the updated amount.”

This response did little to calm angry subscribers, who took to social media to express their displeasure. Many complained that the increase was excessive and would make internet access more difficult for average Nigerians.

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Contradiction with NCC’s Approval

Interestingly, the new MTN prices appear to contradict the approval previously granted by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). The regulatory body had earlier approved a maximum increase of 50% on telecom tariffs, citing economic factors affecting the sector.

NCC spokesperson, Reuben Mouka, stated that the tariff hike was necessary due to the rising cost of operations. However, MTN’s price surge in some bundles far exceeds the approved 50% limit.

New MTN Data Prices Breakdown

Here is the updated MTN data price list, showing the percentage increase in each bundle:

• 15GB Weekly Plan: Increased from N2,000 to N6,000 (200% increase)
• 1.5TB Plan: Increased from N150,000 to N240,000 (60% increase)
• 100GB (now 90GB) Plan: Increased from N20,000 to N25,000 (25% increase)
• 25GB Plan: Increased from N6,500 to N9,000 (38.5% increase)
• 4GB + 10 mins Monthly Plan (now 5.5GB Monthly Plan): Increased from N2,000 to N3,500 (75% increase)
• 3.5GB 2-Day Plan: Increased from N800 to N1,000 (25% increase)
• 75GB Plan: Increased from N16,000 to N20,000 (25% increase)

These sharp increases are expected to significantly impact individuals and businesses that rely on mobile data for daily operations.

Public Outrage and Economic Concerns

Many Nigerians have voiced their frustration over the sudden price increase, calling it unfair and burdensome. With the country already grappling with inflation and economic challenges, the higher cost of internet access could worsen the situation.

Social media platforms are flooded with complaints, with users accusing MTN of prioritizing profits over consumer welfare. Some subscribers are considering switching to alternative providers, while others are calling on the NCC to intervene.

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A business owner, Emmanuel Ojo, shared his concerns: “This increase is outrageous! I depend on data for my online business, and now my expenses have doubled. How are we supposed to survive this?”

Similarly, a student, Blessing Adebayo, lamented: “I use data to attend online classes and do research. With these prices, I may have to cut down on my studies.”

What This Means for Telecom Users

For many Nigerians, mobile data is essential for work, education, and communication. The price hike means fewer people may be able to afford reliable internet access, which could affect productivity and digital inclusion.

Although MTN claims the increase is necessary to enhance services, many users feel the price adjustments are excessive and poorly timed. With other telecom providers likely to follow suit, consumers may have to brace for higher costs across the industry.

Will NCC Intervene?

The NCC’s earlier approval of a 50% tariff increase was meant to help telecom operators manage rising operational costs. However, MTN’s decision to increase some bundles by 200% raises questions about regulatory oversight.

Many are calling on the NCC to enforce its directive and ensure that telecom companies adhere to the approved pricing limits. If no action is taken, Nigerians may continue to face unpredictable increases in mobile data costs.

Conclusion

MTN Nigeria’s latest data price hike has sparked widespread criticism, with customers struggling to cope with the new costs. While the company argues that the changes will improve service quality, many Nigerians feel the increase is excessive and unfair.

As the debate continues, all eyes are on the NCC to see whether it will step in to regulate the pricing and protect consumers. For now, users will have to adjust their budgets or seek alternative data providers to keep up with their digital needs.

Stay tuned for further updates as this situation unfolds.