By Blessing Obi
MTN Nigeria, the country’s largest telecom operator, has issued a public apology following widespread outrage over a 200% increase in the price of its 15GB data bundle.
The sudden price adjustment, which raised the cost of the weekly 15GB bundle from ₦2,000 to ₦6,000, took subscribers by surprise and triggered backlash across social media platforms on Wednesday. Many customers expressed frustration, calling the move unfair and inconsiderate, given the economic difficulties already facing Nigerians.
In response to the backlash, MTN took to social media on Thursday with an informal, conversational message acknowledging its customers’ anger.
“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 favourite digital bundle,” the message read.
“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 telecom giant urged customers to forgive the price hike, using a lighthearted tone to appease frustrated subscribers. “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.”
Although MTN is the first to implement such a steep price increase, it may not be the last. The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) recently approved a 50% tariff increase for telecom operators, which means **Airtel and Globacom may follow suit.
Despite this regulatory approval, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has strongly condemned the price adjustments, demanding an immediate reversal. The NLC argues that increasing telecom tariffs will place an additional burden on Nigerians, many of whom are already struggling with the rising cost of living.
While MTN has apologized, it has not indicated whether it will reverse the price hike or offer any relief to customers. For now, subscribers are left wondering if this is a temporary mistake or a permanent change.
As telecom providers adjust their pricing models, Nigerians may need to brace for a future where affordable data becomes a thing of the past.
