Abiodun JIMOH
MTN Nigeria has raised its data prices as telecom operators begin implementing the 50% tariff hike approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), despite a directive from the House of Representatives to suspend the increase.
The new MTN data prices show significant adjustments, with the 1.8GB monthly plan now costing ₦1,500, replacing the previous 1.5GB plan at ₦1,000. The 20GB plan has risen to ₦7,500 from ₦5,500, while the 15GB plan now sells for ₦6,500, up from ₦4,500. Additionally, text messages across all networks now cost ₦6.00, up from ₦4.00.
The NCC had on January 20 approved a 50% tariff increase, citing high operational costs and the need to sustain the industry. The move has, however, sparked opposition from consumer advocacy groups. The National Association of Telecommunications Subscribers (NATCOMS) has rejected the increase, arguing that it adds to Nigerians’ economic burden and was done without proper stakeholder consultation.
In response to widespread criticism, the House of Representatives on Tuesday ordered the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, and the NCC to suspend the tariff hike. Lawmaker Oforji Oboku, who sponsored the motion, argued that poor service quality and rising inflation make the increase unjustifiable.
Oboku warned that higher telecom costs could worsen financial struggles for Nigerians, hinder digital access in key sectors like banking, education, and healthcare, and widen economic inequality. The House insisted that telecom providers must improve service delivery before increasing tariffs.
Despite this resolution, MTN has proceeded with the price hike, raising concerns about regulatory compliance and consumer protection in Nigeria’s telecom sector
