MTN implements 50% tariff hike, raises data prices
Lagos, Nigeria - MTN Nigeria, the country's largest telecommunications operator, has implemented a 50% tariff hike on its data plans, sparking widespread criticism from consumers.
The tariff increase, which took effect on February 1, affects various data plans, including the popular 1.5GB monthly plan, which now costs ₦1,500, up from ₦1,000. Larger bundles, such as the 1.5TB 90-day plan, have also seen significant price hikes, jumping from ₦150,000 to ₦240,000.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) approved the tariff hike in January, citing rising operational costs and the need for the sector's long-term sustainability. However, consumers have expressed outrage over the move, with many taking to social media to vent their frustrations.
"This is unacceptable," said Lagos-based businessman, Tunde Oyedele. "MTN is taking advantage of its dominance in the market to exploit consumers. The NCC should be protecting our interests, not allowing operators to fleece us."
The National Association of Telecommunications Subscribers (NATCOMS) has also opposed the hike, calling for a reversal to a 10% increase.
"We understand that operators need to adjust their prices to reflect changing market conditions," said NATCOMS President, Adeolu Ogunbanjo. "However, a 50% hike is excessive and will disproportionately affect low-income consumers who rely on affordable data plans to access essential services."
MTN Nigeria has defended the tariff hike, stating that it is necessary to ensure the sustainability of its operations and invest in network upgrades.
"We understand that price increases can be challenging for our customers," said MTN Nigeria's Chief Executive Officer, Karl Toriola. "However, we are committed to delivering high-quality services and investing in our network to meet the evolving needs of our customers."
The development has sparked concerns about the impact on Nigeria's digital economy, which has been a key driver of growth in recent years. As the country's largest telecommunications operator, MTN Nigeria's tariff hike is likely to have far-reaching consequences for consumers, businesses, and the broader economy._MTN Nigeria Implements 50% Tariff Hike Amidst Consumer Outcry_
Lagos, Nigeria - MTN Nigeria, the country's largest telecommunications operator, has implemented a 50% tariff hike on its data plans, sparking widespread criticism from consumers.
The tariff increase, which took effect on February 1, affects various data plans, including the popular 1.5GB monthly plan, which now costs ₦1,500, up from ₦1,000. Larger bundles, such as the 1.5TB 90-day plan, have also seen significant price hikes, jumping from ₦150,000 to ₦240,000.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) approved the tariff hike in January, citing rising operational costs and the need for the sector's long-term sustainability. However, consumers have expressed outrage over the move, with many taking to social media to vent their frustrations.
"This is unacceptable," said Lagos-based businessman, Tunde Oyedele. "MTN is taking advantage of its dominance in the market to exploit consumers. The NCC should be protecting our interests, not allowing operators to fleece us."
The National Association of Telecommunications Subscribers (NATCOMS) has also opposed the hike, calling for a reversal to a 10% increase.
"We understand that operators need to adjust their prices to reflect changing market conditions," said NATCOMS President, Adeolu Ogunbanjo. "However, a 50% hike is excessive and will disproportionately affect low-income consumers who rely on affordable data plans to access essential services."
MTN Nigeria has defended the tariff hike, stating that it is necessary to ensure the sustainability of its operations and invest in network upgrades.
"We understand that price increases can be challenging for our customers," said MTN Nigeria's Chief Executive Officer, Karl Toriola. "However, we are committed to delivering high-quality services and investing in our network to meet the evolving needs of our customers."
The development has sparked concerns about the impact on Nigeria's digital economy, which has been a key driver of growth in recent years. As the country's largest telecommunications operator, MTN Nigeria's tariff hike is likely to have far-reaching consequences for consumers, businesses, and the broader economy.
https://punchng.com/mtn-implements-50-tariff-hike-raises-data-prices/