MTN Nigeria Increases Data Tariffs by 200%

By Adamu Aliyu Aliyu/Abuja//. MTN Nigeria has officially increased its data tariffs by up to 200%, following regulatory approval from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).

The telecom giant confirmed the hike in a statement on its official X page, stating:

“Y’ello! Thanks for stopping by. We are sorry 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.”

The adjustment comes after the NCC approved a tariff increase for telecom operators, citing prevailing market conditions. Reuben Mouka, the commission’s spokesperson, explained that the decision aligns with the NCC’s regulatory powers under Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003.

According to Mouka, the adjustment allows a maximum tariff increase of 50%, a compromise from the over 100% hike initially requested by some network operators.

Under the new pricing structure:

The 15GB data bundle, previously priced at N2,000, now costs N6,000.

The 1.5TB plan has increased from N150,000 to N240,000.

The 100GB bundle, which previously cost N20,000 for 100GB, has been adjusted to N25,000 for 90GB.

The 600GB bundle has risen from N75,000 to N120,000 for 480GB.

The sharp increase has sparked outrage among subscribers, many of whom have taken to social media to express their dissatisfaction. With Nigerians already facing economic challenges, customers are calling on MTN to reconsider the new prices.

Mouka, however, emphasized that the adjustments were made with ongoing industry reforms in mind.

“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.”