Customers Vexed AS MTN Data Prices Skyrocket

MTN Increases Data Prices as NCC Approves 50% Tariff Hike What You Need to Know

The cost of staying connected in Nigeria just got more expensive as MTN Nigeria has officially increased its data subscription rates. This comes after the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) approved a 50% tariff adjustment for telecom operators, citing rising operational costs and the need to sustain the industry.

With this change, millions of Nigerians will now have to pay more for data and SMS services, marking a huge shift in the country’s telecommunications landscape.

A Comparison of the New MTN’s New Data Prices With Glo Tariff

The revised data plans show a notable increase in pricing across various packages. 

MTN: 15GB Plan – Increased from ₦2000 to ₦6000. 

Glo: The price for similar tariff still remains the same (₦2000 for 15GB: 7 day validity)

Although Airtel and Glo data charges remain the same, text message costs have also increased across all networks. MTN, Airtel, Globacom, and 9mobile now charge ₦6.00 per SMS, up from the previous ₦4.00—a direct reflection of the 50% hike approved by the NCC.

Why Did the NCC Approve a Tariff Hike?

On January 20, 2025, the NCC officially approved the 50% tariff adjustment, citing:

• Rising operational costs affecting telecom companies.
• The need to keep the industry financially viable.
• The fact that telecom prices have remained unchanged since 2013, despite inflation and increased expenses.

According to the NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka, the decision aligns with the Commission’s regulatory role under Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003.

Telecom Operators Move To Implement Price Changes

Following NCC’s approval, telecom operators submitted their new pricing structures, which are now being rolled out across different networks. MTN is the first to adjust its rates, while other telecom companies, including Airtel, Globacom, and 9mobile, are expected to follow soon.

The Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Engr. Gbenga Adebayo, confirmed that all operators had sent their proposed tariff changes for approval and were awaiting final clearance.

Backlash from Subscribers and Consumer Advocacy Groups

Despite the NCC’s justification, the National Association of Telecommunications Subscribers (NATCOMS) has strongly opposed the tariff hike, threatening legal action. The association argues that the price increase was implemented without adequate consultation with key stakeholders, including Nigerian telecom users.

On the other hand, the Presidency has defended the decision, stating that the move is necessary to keep the telecom sector stable. However, in a statement released by the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Media Centre, the government clarified that:

“This approval does not mean automatic increases in tariffs. Operators are free to maintain their current rates if they find them sustainable.”

What This Means for Nigerian Telecom Users

With MTN leading the charge in implementing these changes, subscribers should expect other telecom providers to follow suit in the coming weeks. The rising cost of data and messaging services is likely to impact businesses, students, and individuals who rely heavily on affordable internet access.

As the situation unfolds, consumers and advocacy groups will continue to push back, demanding better transparency and consideration for affordability in future pricing decisions.