Nigerian subscribers are flocking to alternative network providers following a significant price hike by MTN Nigeria on its data and SMS services.
The telecommunications giant recently increased its rates by as much as 50%, sparking widespread outrage among users.
Affected customers have reported sharp increases across various data bundles. For instance, the 15GB data plan has surged from N4,500 to N6,500, while the 20GB plan has climbed from N5,500 to N7,500.
The price hikes are even steeper for larger packages, with the 1.5TB 90-day plan now priced at N240,000, up from N150,000, and the 600GB 90-day plan rising from N75,000 to N120,000. In addition, SMS rates have jumped from N4 to N6 per message.
The price adjustment has caused significant frustration, with many Nigerians expressing their dissatisfaction on social media. One user, #not_ahmedjunior, lamented, “It’s nearly impossible for the average Nigerian to progress. The 15GB data plan that used to cost N2,000 is now N6,000.”
Another user, #official_GZU, pointed out that the price hike reflects the broader economic challenges in the country rather than an arbitrary decision. “Complaining won’t change anything because telecom operators operate within a profit-driven system. Prices are influenced by inflation, currency devaluation, and market forces,” he said.
Adding to the frustration, it has been reported that MTN has also discontinued its “Hot Deals” package (*121#), which previously offered discounted data plans. This decision further exacerbated the discontent among subscribers.
The price increase exceeds the 50% hike reportedly approved by the federal government and contradicts MTN’s initial proposal for a 150% increase, which was rejected by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).
To make matters worse, the price adjustment was implemented earlier than expected, despite ongoing discussions with the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC).
The sudden surge in prices has ignited a wave of backlash, with many Nigerians already grappling with economic hardships voicing their displeasure online.
Some have even called for a boycott, urging MTN to reconsider its decision and find more sustainable pricing options for its customers.
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An X user, #Khan wrote: “I think it’s high time we boycotted MTN. Their network is terrible, and their data plans are a rip-off. The 15GB package doesn’t even last three days. During the protest, they deliberately sabotaged their own network to prevent it from happening.”
Another #Silva, said: “Nigeria is a very difficult place to live in, honestly. MTN waking up one day to increase their weekly 15GB data from 2K to 6K without prior warning is textbook insanity. That’s 24K in a month—almost the minimum wage of the country spent on data. This is hell.”
#neefenawti also wrote: “I won’t even blame MTN. In a country where the president said he does not believe in price control, what do you expect? The government is watching people plunge further into poverty.”
While MTN has yet to issue an official statement explaining the price increase, the decision has left many subscribers feeling shortchanged. With Airtel, Globacom, and 9mobile yet to announce similar hikes, there is growing speculation about whether MTN’s move will influence competitors or lead to a shift in customer loyalty.
As the situation unfolds, Nigerians are calling for urgent regulatory intervention to ensure affordability and transparency in telecom pricing.
