Nigerians are set to pay more for mobile data and text messaging as MTN Nigeria has increased its data subscription prices, reflecting the 50% price increment approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).
This move marks the beginning of a broader adjustment across the telecom industry, with other operators expected to follow soon.
According to the new MTN data prices, the 1.8GB monthly data plan now costs N1,500, replacing the previous 1.5GB plan priced at N1,000. Similarly, the 20GB data plan has been raised to N7,500, up from N5,500, while the 15GB plan now costs N6,500, a rise from N4,500.
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In addition to data price hikes, SMS charges have also increased from N4.00 to N6.00 per message, aligning with the 50% tariff adjustment approved by the NCC.
More Telecom Operators to Implement New Tariffs Soon
While MTN has already updated its data tariffs, other telecom operators—Airtel, Globacom, and 9mobile—are yet to implement their new pricing structures. However, industry sources confirm that all networks have already adjusted their SMS pricing, with calls and data tariffs expected to follow soon.
According to telecom insiders, the final approval for the new tariff structure was granted on Monday, and operators are currently in the process of updating their data and voice pricing plans.
The Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Engr. Gbenga Adebayo, confirmed two weeks ago that all telecom operators had submitted their proposed tariff changes to the NCC and were awaiting approval.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) had on January 20, 2024, officially announced the 50% tariff adjustment, citing rising operational costs and the need to sustain the telecom industry.
The NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka, in a statement, explained that the decision aligns with the Commission’s regulatory function under Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003.
The tariff increase comes as telecom operators have repeatedly complained about inflation, foreign exchange challenges, high energy costs, and increased equipment costs affecting their operations.
Subscribers and Advocacy Groups Oppose the Tariff Hike
Despite the government’s justification, Nigerian telecom subscribers have expressed dissatisfaction over the price hike. The National Association of Telecommunications Subscribers (NATCOMS) has condemned the move and is threatening to challenge the NCC’s decision in court.
“This is a complete negation of the statutory duty of NCC to protect the interest of Telecom Services Consumers.
“We are aware of the arguments of the Telecoms Operators that there has not been any tariff increment in a decade, multiple levies slammed on them by different tiers of Government and the dollarization costs of their equipment.
“But truth be told, there are many other avenues through which the operators can generate funds to meet their rising operational costs without putting unbearable burden on their consumers,” it said.
According to NATCOMS, the tariff increment was implemented without proper consultation with subscribers, ignoring concerns about affordability, particularly amid Nigeria’s worsening economic conditions.
“This Association considers the decision of the NCC as very insensitive and not in the interest of Telecoms Services Consumers.
“The unrelenting rise in prices of Goods and Services in the country has made life extremely difficult for the generality of citizens who are the consumers of telecom services.
“The new increment is therefore one additional burden too many,” a spokesperson for NATCOMS stated.
Amid growing backlash, the NCC has defended the 50% tariff approval, arguing that it was necessary to ensure the sustainability of the telecom industry.
The commission also pointed out that telecom tariffs in Nigeria have remained static since 2013, despite inflation, rising energy costs, and naira devaluation.
Rising Costs, Economic Hardship, and the Burden on Nigerians
The tariff increase comes at a time when Nigerians are already struggling with economic difficulties, including high inflation, rising food costs, and currency devaluation.
In the past year, the cost of telecom services has been a major concern, as telecom operators continue to battle increasing diesel prices for powering base stations, foreign exchange shortages for importing network equipment, and higher taxes imposed by the government.
With Nigeria’s economy declining—as GDP per capita fell from $877.07 in 2024 to $835.49 in 2025—economists fear that higher data and call costs will further affect businesses, education, and general internet access in the country.