Subscribers Lament Sudden Tariff Increase Amid NCC’s Recent 50% Cap Approval
Telecommunications giant MTN Nigeria has tendered an apology to its subscribers following a sudden and controversial 200% increase in the price of its 15GB data plan. The company’s unexpected price adjustment, which far exceeded the Nigerian Communications Commission’s (NCC) recently approved 50% tariff cap, triggered widespread outrage among users.
The price hike, implemented on Tuesday, saw the cost of the 15GB data subscription skyrocket by 200%, with other packages also witnessing steep increases. For instance, the MTN 1.8GB monthly plan now costs ₦1,500, up from ₦1,000, while the 20GB plan surged from ₦5,500 to ₦7,500.
The NCC had, on January 20, announced its approval for telecom operators to adjust their tariffs in response to market realities. However, the commission explicitly capped the increase at 50%, far below the over 100% hikes sought by some operators.
In a statement signed by its Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka, the NCC referenced Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003 (NCA), which grants it regulatory oversight on tariff approvals. The commission emphasized that any adjustments must align with the 2013 NCC Cost Study and would be reviewed individually to ensure compliance with the 2024 NCC Guidance on Tariff Simplification.
Faced with growing customer backlash, MTN on Thursday released a statement admitting to the blunder and urging subscribers to forgive and move on.
“To our 15GB digital bundle lovers, you dey vex. We know. We know how upsetting it must have been to suddenly wake up to a 200% increase on your favorite digital bundle,” MTN wrote in a lighthearted, pidgin-infused apology.
“We could share several reasons and provide explanations, but omo, all that one na story. We don cast. We get it and admit it. Let’s just say na mistake.”
The statement, which took an unusually informal and humorous approach for a corporate apology, further pleaded:
“In this love season, don’t stay angry with us. Please forgive and forget. You matter, die, and we will never stop showing you how much. Let’s continue our relationship. Thank you for your understanding.”
MTN’s apology has sparked mixed reactions. While some subscribers found the informal tone amusing, many viewed it as tone-deaf and dismissive given the financial strain such a price hike imposes on users.
Social media has been flooded with complaints, with users questioning why the company implemented a 200% increase when the NCC had only approved a 50% cap. Others criticized MTN for what they see as profiteering at the expense of struggling Nigerians.
Despite the backlash, MTN has not explicitly stated whether it will reverse the tariff increase. Industry experts suggest that the company may face regulatory scrutiny if it is found to have violated NCC’s tariff cap.
For now, subscribers remain on edge, waiting to see whether MTN will back up its apology with tangible action—or if this was just “story,” as the telecom giant itself put it.
PIONEER NEWS 