MTN’s 200% Data Price Hike Sparks Outrage as Customers Reject ‘Mistaken’ Increase

Nigeria’s leading telecom operator, MTN, has found itself in hot water following a sudden 200% increase in the price of its popular 15GB weekly data plan, which skyrocketed from ₦2,000 to ₦6,000—far beyond the 50% tariff hike recently approved by the Federal Government.

The unexpected price surge triggered widespread outrage on social media, with subscribers expressing their frustration over what many described as exploitation in disguise. Customers who had relied on the affordable data package woke up to the new pricing on Wednesday, February 14, without prior notice from the telecom giant.

MTN’s Apology: A Weak Attempt at Damage Control?

In a bid to control the backlash, MTN issued a public apology on Thursday, adopting a lighthearted, conversational tone. While acknowledging the frustration of its users, the company attempted to downplay the issue, admitting to making a “mistake.”

“You dey vex. We know. We know how upsetting it must have been to suddenly wake up to a 200% increase on your favourite digital bundle. We could share several reasons and provide explanations, but omo, all that one na story. We don cast. We get it and admit it. Let’s just say na mistake.”

While the apology may have been intended to pacify angry customers, it raises serious concerns. How does a company as big as MTN “mistakenly” implement a price increase of this magnitude? If the Federal Government only approved a 50% hike, how did MTN arrive at a 200% jump?

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What’s Next? Will Other Telcos Follow?

As of now, only MTN has implemented the price hike, but industry watchers fear that Airtel and Globacom may soon follow, considering the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) recently approved a 50% tariff increase. However, a 200% increase is unjustifiable and unacceptable, as it far exceeds the regulated adjustment.

Labour Unions Reject Tariff Hike

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has condemned the excessive price hike, calling for an immediate reversal of the increase. The union insists that the approved 50% increment should not be used as an excuse for excessive exploitation.

With inflation and economic hardship already taking a toll on Nigerians, an unjustified data price surge is the last thing consumers need. Will MTN truly correct its “mistake,” or will this become a new norm for Nigeria’s telecom industry? Time will tell.

Stay tuned for updates!