MTN Raises Data Prices as NCC 50% Hike Takes Effect

MTN Nigeria has increased the price of its data subscriptions as telecommunications operators in Nigeria begin implementing the 50% tariff hike recently approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).

Revised MTN data prices for MTN’s 1.8GB monthly plan now cost ₦1,500, replacing the previous 1.5GB plan priced at ₦1,000.

The 20GB plan has risen to ₦7,500, up from ₦5,500, while the 15GB plan now costs ₦6,500, an increase from ₦4,500. Text Messages Now ₦6.00

While other mobile operators, including Airtel, Globacom, and 9mobile, are now charging ₦6.00 per text message, up from ₦4.00.

The increase in SMS pricing reflects the 50% hike approved by the NCC.

According to telecom industry sources, operators received final approval for their new tariff plans on Monday, and all networks are currently adjusting their data and voice plans.

Two weeks ago, while speaking at a forum, the Chairman of the , Engr. Gbenga Adebayo confirmed that all telecom operators had submitted their revised tariff plans to the NCC and were awaiting approval.

Also Read: Tariff Review: Nigerian Telecom Operators Warn of Service Shutdowns

Background Information

On 20 January, the NCC announced that it had approved a 50% tariff adjustment for telecom operators, citing rising operational costs and the need to sustain the industry.

In a statement signed by the Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka, the Commission noted that the decision aligns with its regulatory role under Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003.

However, the National Association of Telecommunications Subscribers (NATCOMS) has threatened to challenge the tariff hike in court, arguing that the decision was made without proper consultation with key stakeholders, including subscribers.

Meanwhile, the Presidency has defended the 50% tariff approval, stating that it is necessary to sustain the telecom industry. It, however, clarified that the approval does not mandate an immediate 50% price increase.

The Centre further described the approval as a critical step in addressing key challenges in the telecommunications sector. It also noted that the telecom industry in Nigeria had maintained static pricing for over a decade, with tariffs remaining unchanged since 2013, despite significant increases in operational costs.