In a move that has left many subscribers reeling, MTN Nigeria has significantly increased its data plan rates, adding to the financial strain already felt by consumers due to inflation and economic challenges. The new tariff hike, authorized by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), comes at a time when many are struggling to keep up with rising costs of living.
The data plan adjustments are quite drastic. For instance, the 1.5 terabyte yearly data plan, which previously cost around N150,000, has now been raised to N240,000. Meanwhile, a 1.0 terabyte plan valid for six months now costs N100,000. For the HynetFlex Broadband users, the 30GB monthly plan has been increased to N9,000, while a 450GB plan for three months is now priced at N75,000.
Additionally, those using the Mifi Broadband package will now have to pay N30,000 for a 30GB monthly plan and N24,000 for a 120GB monthly package. Mobile device users aren’t spared either, with the 20GB monthly data plan going from N5,000 to N7,500, the 25GB plan now costing N9,000, and the 32GB plan jumping to N11,000.
Consumers have voiced their frustration, arguing that these increases come at a particularly challenging time. With inflationary pressures affecting virtually every aspect of daily life, the additional burden of higher data costs has been met with widespread criticism. The organized labor unions have even threatened to disrupt economic activities through nationwide protests if the federal government fails to review and address the 50 percent tariff hike by the telcos.
Deolu Ogunbanjo, president of the National Association of Telecoms Subscribers (NATCOMS), expressed his concerns: “It is not it at all. It is so much for subscribers to bear. Already, we are grappling with a lot of things that are surrounding the business climate here… fuel cost, electricity cost, and all that… you are now looking at telcos asking for 100 per cent and NCC now is granting them 50 per cent. It is a no-no.”
Subscribers have also threatened legal action against the government if this policy is not rescinded, reflecting the extent of public discontent. As debates and protests continue, it remains to be seen how the government and telecommunications companies will respond to the growing backlash.