MTN has recently raised its 15GB data plan price from ₦2000 to ₦6000—a significant jump that comes just days after Airtel increased its own data rates. In addition to the price hike, users have reported that MTN’s SME services are currently down and the data gifting feature has been disabled.
These swift changes have raised concerns among Nigerian telecom users. The price increase is likely a response to rising operational costs, inflation, and the surging demand for robust digital connectivity. As network investments continue to escalate, telecom operators are forced to adjust their pricing structures, impacting both individual consumers and small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
The disabled gifting feature further limits user flexibility, preventing customers from sharing data bundles—a service that many found valuable for staying connected. Meanwhile, the outage of SME services poses additional challenges for businesses that depend on reliable communication and data access to operate efficiently.
These developments come at a time when the industry is witnessing a series of pricing adjustments. With Airtel’s recent corporate rate increase as a backdrop, the actions by MTN underscore a broader trend in Nigeria’s telecom sector: the need to balance escalating costs with consumer affordability in an increasingly digital landscape.
As the situation evolves, consumers and businesses alike are advised to stay informed and consider alternative plans or providers if necessary. Further updates on service restoration and additional pricing strategies will be critical to understanding the full impact of these changes on Nigeria’s telecommunications environment.
