MTN Nigeria has significantly increased the cost of data subscriptions, with hikes of up to 200% recorded for certain tariffs.
The move comes as the telco has begun implementing the 50% tariff adjustment recently approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission.
With the revised pricing structure, MTN’s weekly 15GB data plan has increased from ₦2,000 to ₦6,000, reflecting a 200% rise.
Furthermore, the 1.8GB monthly package is now priced at ₦1,500, an increase from the earlier 1.5GB plan that costs ₦1,000.
The 20GB plan is now priced at ₦7,500, up from ₦5,500, and the 15GB plan has increased to ₦6,500, previously ₦4,500.
These modifications occurred after the NCC authorized a 50% tariff hike for telecom operators, intended to tackle increasing operational expenses and guarantee the sector’s sustainability.
The NCC highlighted that this change would allow operators to keep investing in infrastructure and enhancing service quality for Nigerians.
Nonetheless, the significant rise in data costs has sparked public uproar, as numerous Nigerians voice their dissatisfaction regarding the extra financial strain in already tough economic circumstances.
The National Association of Telecommunications Subscribers has warned it will contest the sanctioned tariff increase in court, claiming the resolution was reached without proper consultation with important stakeholders, such as subscribers.
In a reaction to the criticism, the Presidency justified the 50% tariff increase, claiming it was essential to maintain the telecom sector’s viability.
It highlighted that the endorsement does not imply that the telecom providers are required to raise their rates by 50% right away.
“It is crucial to emphasize that this approval does not imply automatic tariff hikes.” “Operators have the autonomy to retain their existing rates if they consider them viable,” stated President Bola Tinubu Media Centre.
With the introduction of the new prices, consumers are encouraged to review their revised data rates and adjust their usage as necessary.
“The situation is constantly evolving and we expect to see potential legal challenges and further discussions between the parties in the coming weeks,” the centre said.
