MTN Shocks Nigerians With Massive Data Price Hike - See Full List
Afnews Editor
Feb 12, 2025
MTN Nigeria's new data prices have sparked outrage as some bundles now cost over 200% more. With NCC's tariff approval and MTN's justification, Nigerians are left questioning if they are getting value for their money. Read details -
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MTN Nigeria, one of the country's largest telecom providers, has implemented a steep increase in its data plan prices, leaving subscribers frustrated and sparking intense reactions across social media. The new pricing, which reflects a significant jump in costs, follows the Nigerian Communications Commission's (NCC) approval of a tariff hike for telecom operators.
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Responding to complaints from customers on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle, MTN confirmed the new pricing structure, stating:
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"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."
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Despite this justification, subscribers have taken to social media to express their outrage, with many calling the hike "exploitativeÔÇØ and questioning whether the quality of service will improve in proportion to the increased cost.
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The NCC had earlier approved a tariff hike, citing economic realities and industry sustainability. According to NCC spokesperson Reuben Mouka, the commission's regulatory powers under Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003, enabled it to approve a maximum price increase of 50%, despite some telecom operators initially pushing for a 100% hike.
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Mouka explained that the decision was a "compromiseÔÇØ aimed at balancing industry stability with consumer affordability. However, analysis of MTN's new pricing structure shows that some data plans have risen far beyond the 50% threshold, with certain bundles surging by over 200%.
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Full List of MTN's New Data Prices
???? 15GB Bundle - Previously 2,000, now 6,000
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???? 1.5TB Plan - Previously 150,000, now 240,000
???? 100GB Bundle - Previously 20,000 for 100GB, now 25,000 for 90GB
Subscribers are particularly enraged by the reduction in data volume for the same or higher prices, further fueling allegations that telecom providers are prioritizing profits over affordability.
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Many Nigerians have expressed disappointment, accusing MTN and other telecom companies of taking advantage of the difficult economic situation. Social media platforms have been flooded with complaints, with users demanding that the government intervene to regulate pricing more strictly.
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With inflation already affecting the cost of living, many fear that increased data prices will further limit internet access, particularly for small businesses, students, and digital entrepreneurs who rely heavily on affordable connectivity.
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As telecom giants continue to adjust pricing amid regulatory changes, the big question remains: Will Nigerians see an improvement in network quality to justify the massive price hike? Or is this just another blow to consumers already struggling under economic hardship?
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