MTN Nigeria is currently the subject of widespread debate on X (formerly Twitter) after increasing the cost of one of its popular data plans from ₦2,000 to ₦6,000, sparking outrage among subscribers.
Online checks reveal that the telecom giant’s 15GB weekly plan now costs ₦6,000, a sharp rise from the previous ₦2,260 price tag. Other data plans have also seen substantial price adjustments. For instance, the 5GB plan, previously ₦1,500, has been slightly modified to 5.5GB but now costs ₦3,500, more than double its former rate.
Many users have described the hike as excessive and abrupt. The move follows the Nigerian Communications Commission’s (NCC) recent approval of a 50% increase in tariffs for telecom operators, who had initially lobbied for a 100% hike. According to the NCC, the increase was necessary to ensure the sustainability of the telecom industry while balancing the interests of both operators and consumers.
However, MTN’s price adjustments appear to far exceed the NCC’s approved 50% limit, leading to speculation among users about whether the changes were intentional or a system error. As of now, there has been no official response from MTN regarding the backlash.
Social Media Reactions
The price increase has ignited a flurry of reactions online, with many subscribers expressing frustration and disbelief:
- @shar454: “Jesus, is this a glitch from MTN or what? 😳 From ₦2,000 to ₦6,000 wtf @MTNNG”
- @gbolahan2211: “Imagine MTN increasing their tariff for 15GB overnight without prior notice to customers. This is no way to do things, man. I even sent them a message, and they told me it’s to serve me better. Damn!!”
- @GIFTy6286: “If they like, they should increase it to ₦1 million, we will survive.”
- @AfrokonnectNG: “This sudden price increase from ₦2,000 to ₦6,000 for 15GB is wild! How are people supposed to cope? Internet access is essential for work, education, and staying connected, yet it’s being priced like a luxury. At this rate, users may be forced to seek alternatives or drastically reduce data consumption. MTN really needs to reconsider this move.”
- @Gorilla23mp: “But this is almost a 200% increment; I thought they said it wouldn’t exceed 100%?”
- @nolifefahard: “Y’all voted for capitalism. 😂😂😂 We will learn the hard way.”
- @damilarebellz: “You see why @AirtelNigeria and @GloWorld are useless? MTN will keep doing whatever they like with tariffs because these other networks can’t compete.”
With no official clarification yet from MTN or the NCC, many Nigerians remain uncertain about the justification for the drastic price hike and whether further increases are on the horizon. The development has reignited conversations about telecom affordability in Nigeria, with consumers demanding more transparency and regulatory oversight to prevent exploitation.
