Nigerians are up in arms over the recent hike in MTN Nigeria’s data and SMS prices, with many already switching to alternative network providers.

The House of Representatives has now stepped in, urging the Federal Government to suspend the price increase until telecom services improve.

Why the Outrage?

Subscribers were left shocked after MTN quietly increased its data and SMS tariffs by up to 50%, pushing many to rethink their loyalty to the telecom giant.

Here’s what the new pricing looks like:

• 15GB plan: ₦4,500 → ₦6,500
• 20GB plan: ₦5,500 → ₦7,500
• 600GB (90-day plan): ₦75,000 → ₦120,000
• 1.5TB (90-day plan): ₦150,000 → ₦240,000
• SMS rates: ₦4 → ₦6 per message

The abrupt increase has triggered a massive backlash, with many Nigerians taking to social media to express their frustration.

A user, @not_ahmedjunior, wrote:

“How does a 15GB data plan that used to be ₦2,000 now cost ₦6,000? This country is something else!”

Another, @neefenawti, blamed the government’s regulatory stance, saying:

“I won’t even blame MTN. In a country where the president said he doesn’t believe in price control, what do you expect?”

To make matters worse, MTN has also scrapped its popular ‘Hot Deals’ package (*121#), which used to offer discounted data plans.

Lawmakers Step In

At a plenary session, Hon. Obuku Oforji, representing Yenagoa/Kolokuma/Opokuma Federal Constituency of Bayelsa State, moved a motion calling for an immediate suspension of the price hike.

He reminded the House that during a stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja on January 8, 2025, the Minister of Communications, Dr. Bosun Tijani, revealed that telecom operators had been lobbying for up to a 100% tariff increase.

However, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) only approved a 50% hike.

Oforji criticized telecom companies for prioritizing profits while offering poor service, stating:

“Before they increase prices, they should first fix their terrible network issues that Nigerians have been complaining about for years!”

The National Association of Telecoms Subscribers (NATCOMS) has also rejected the price hike, describing it as insensitive and an additional burden on already struggling Nigerians.

What Happens Next?

As Nigerians grapple with the rising cost of living, many are calling for regulatory intervention to stop arbitrary telecom price hikes.

The big question now is: Will the government listen and act, or will Nigerians be forced to accept these new rates?

For now, MTN has not issued any official statement addressing the backlash. Meanwhile, subscribers are keeping a close eye on competitors like Airtel, Globacom, and 9mobile, hoping they don’t follow in MTN’s footsteps.

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