Nigerians Raise Alarm Over MTN Shocking 200% Data Price Increase
MTN Nigeria has brought a shock price increase in its data prices, in response to a 50%+ telecom price adjustment approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). The action has brought unprecedented radical price hikes in prices of data.
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The price of a subscription of 25GB, for instance, has been increased to ₦9,750 from ₦6,500, that of a subscription of 10GB is now ₦5,250 compared to ₦3,500. Similarly, prices of packages of 5GB and 1GB have been increased to ₦2,250 and ₦525 respectively, up from their initial price of ₦1,500 and ₦350.
The most shocking increase was that of their 15GB weekly data plan from ₦2k to ₦6k.
This action from MTN has brought a wide range of reactions among Nigerian users, particularly on social media platforms. The majority of the users complained of their discontent over price increases, stating their unaffordability and potential impact on their internet access. Some also complained of an increase in data consumption prior to the price increase,
The timing of price increases during a period of financial hardships has also been in controversy, with subscribers demanding an explanation for such a shocking price increase.
Reacting to the backlash, MTN Nigeria explained that it was responding to NCC’s new approval of price adjustment and that it is in line to sustain the quality of services because of increased operating expenses. MTN promised subscribers it is eager to deliver value and to find ways of cushioning price hikes impact on consumers.
The NCC’s action to approve a tariff hike was guided by demands of ailing telecom players to maintain business in the face of increasing business costs in light of such challenges as the devaluation of the naira and inflation. The commission is looking to walk a tightrope to ensure that operators continue to provide high-quality services without compromising consumer protection. The high cost of data, however, has been a contentious point when it comes to the affordability of internet services in Nigeria, in addition to digital inclusion.
