MTN Begins Implementation of 50% Tariff Increase

By Ameenat Hamzat, Lagos, Nigeria 

Nigeria’s largest telecommunications provider, MTN, has begun implementing the 50% tariff increase on data plans, following approval by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) in January.

The adjustment, which does not affect call and SMS rates, has been reflected in the pricing of the network’s various data plans

Several customers have raised eyebrows on the increase as the 1.5GB monthly plan, previously N1,000 has been replaced with a 1.8GB plan now priced at N1,500.

The 15GB plan has increased from N4,500 to N6,500, while the 20GB plan now costs N7,500, up from N5,500.

Larger bundles have seen steeper increments, with the 1.5TB (90-day plan) rising from N150,000 to N240,000, and the 600GB (90-day plan) increasing from N75,000 to N120,000.

Recall that Africa Culture TV reported that the NCC announced the tariff adjustment on January 20, citing rising operational costs and the need to ensure the long-term sustainability of the telecom industry.

According to the NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka, the price adjustment aligns with the Commission’s regulatory mandate under Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003.

However, the National Association of Telecommunications Subscribers (NATCOMS) has rejected the increase and threatened legal action. The group argues that the hike should be limited to 10%, rather than the approved 50%, due to the economic strain on consumers.