A leading telecom service provider in Nigeria, MTN Nigeria, has significantly increased its data tariffs, with some plans surging by as much as 200 per cent.
The hike follows the recent approval by the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, of tariff adjustments for telecom operators, citing prevailing market conditions.
The company confirmed the price increase in a response on its official X account, stating: “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.”
Recall that NCC’s decision was announced in January by its spokesperson, Reuben Mouka, in line with its regulatory powers under Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003.
Mouka explained that while telecom operators had initially requested an over 100 per cent increase, the NCC approved a maximum hike of 50 per cent considering ongoing industry reforms aimed at ensuring sustainability.
“The adjustment, capped at a maximum of 50% of current tariffs, though lower than the over 100% requested by some network operators, was arrived at taking into account ongoing industry reforms that will positively influence sustainability,” he stated.
Despite the NCC’s cap, subscribers have observed drastic increases in MTN’s data prices. According to the revised pricing:
The 15GB data bundle, previously priced at N2,000, now costs N6,000.
The 1.5TB plan has risen from N150,000 to N240,000.
The 100GB bundle has been reduced to 90GB and now costs N25,000, up from N20,000 for 100GB.
The 600GB plan has been adjusted to 480GB, with a price increase from N75,000 to N120,000.
The steep increase has sparked widespread outrage among consumers, many of whom are already struggling with Nigeria’s economic downturn.
