MTN Increases Data Prices as Nigerian Telcos Implement 50% Tariff Hike

[Gigabyte Computer Solutions]

MTN Nigeria has officially raised the cost of its data plans as telecommunications providers across the country begin implementing the 50% tariff adjustment recently approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).

New Data Prices Take Effect
According to updated pricing seen by industry analysts, MTN’s 1.8GB monthly data plan now costs ₦1,500, replacing the former 1.5GB plan, which was priced at ₦1,000.

Other significant changes include:

15GB Plan: Now ₦6,500, up from ₦4,500.
20GB Plan: Increased to ₦7,500 from ₦5,500.
Text Message Charges Also Affected

While other telecom operators—Airtel, Globacom, and 9mobile—have yet to update their data pricing at the time of this report, it has been confirmed that all networks have implemented a new text message charge of ₦6.00 per SMS, up from the previous ₦4.00. This increase aligns with the NCC’s approved 50% tariff adjustment.

Why the Price Hike?
Industry sources indicate that telecom operators received final approval for their revised tariff structures on Monday, prompting adjustments across data, voice, and messaging plans.

At a recent industry event, Engr. Gbenga Adebayo, Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), disclosed that all telecom providers had submitted new pricing proposals to the NCC and were awaiting final authorization.

Regulatory Approval and Reactions
The NCC had earlier announced, on January 20, that it had granted a 50% tariff adjustment for telecom operators. The Commission cited rising operational costs and the need to ensure the financial sustainability of the industry as key reasons for the decision.

A statement from the NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka, emphasized that the decision aligns with the Commission’s regulatory mandate under Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003.

However, not everyone is on board with the changes. The National Association of Telecommunications Subscribers (NATCOMS) has strongly opposed the tariff hike, threatening legal action. The group argues that the increase was approved without adequate consultation with key stakeholders, including consumers.

Government’s Position on the Tariff Adjustment
Defending the decision, the Presidency stated that the tariff hike is essential for maintaining the viability of Nigeria’s telecom sector. However, it clarified that the approval does not mean telecom providers must immediately implement a full 50% increase.

“It is important to highlight that this approval does not mean automatic increases in tariffs. Operators are free to maintain their current rates if they find them sustainable,” the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Media Centre explained in a statement.

The government further noted that the Nigerian telecom industry has operated under a static pricing model for over a decade, with tariffs remaining unchanged since 2013, despite rising operational expenses.

What’s Next for MTN Consumers?

As telecom providers gradually roll out their revised pricing, customers should expect further updates from Airtel, Globacom, and 9mobile in the coming weeks. The ongoing dispute between regulators and consumer advocacy groups may also influence how soon and to what extent these price changes take effect.

For now, subscribers should stay informed, explore cost-effective data plans, and consider alternative communication options where necessary.

[Precious]

they sha want to kill us

[Esther Amadi]

I swear I am tired of what they are doing to us

[justseyi]

they are coming for your glo

[Ayodeji adebayo]

Make una port go GLO

[Author]

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