Nigerians Gets Angry as Airtel Silently Hikes Data Price

In the past few weeks, Nigerians have been ranting about the sudden and massive data price increases by major telecom companies which includes Airtel and MTN. The sudden rise in prices has fuelled debate about the affordability and fairness of mobile data in the country. Many customers have taken to social media, forums and consumer complaint channels to express their anger, citing the cost of internet as a major burden in an already tough economy.

Airtel Nigeria has adjusted its data plans and the 23GB package now costs ₦9,000 instead of ₦6,000 while the 10GB package is ₦4,500 instead of ₦3,000. Other plans have either reduced data for the same price or become more expensive. Users are crying out, especially about the affordability of essential internet services. Many are asking questions about the reason for these changes, especially when internet has become a necessity for work, education and entertainment in Nigeria.

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) approved a 50% tariff hike in January 2025 and telecom operators including Airtel justified the increases by citing rising operational costs, foreign exchange volatility and inflation. With the cost of doing business skyrocketing, telecom companies say adjustments in pricing is necessary to maintain service quality and expand network coverage.

The public response to the increase is very negative because majority of people are angry with the network service providers especially due to the timing and magnitude of the price increases.

Discussions on social media shows a general feeling of disappointment and a search for more budget friendly solutions. Many customers say instead of improving service quality, telecom providers are prioritising profits over users who are already struggling with high cost of living.

Others have accused the companies of implementing the increases “silently” without notification and customers are now getting surprised when they buy data plans.

Consumer rights groups and advocacy organizations are calling for regulatory intervention to ensure telecom companies makes their services (including data plans) more affordable for their users while balancing the price to make profit.

Some users are even calling for boycott of certain service providers. Meanwhile, local tech influencers and bloggers are sharing tips on how to use data wisely, explore alternative network providers and use Wi-Fi hotspots to reduce dependence on mobile data.

Industry experts say unless a policy driven solution is put in place, cost of internet services will continue to rise and further marginalize low income users. With digital access playing a big role in education, business and entertainment, data affordability is going to become a big issue for millions of Nigerians.