Lagos, Nigeria – Nigeria’s largest telecom operator, MTN, has issued a public apology to its customers following widespread backlash over a sudden 200% increase in the price of its popular 15GB weekly data bundle. The unexpected hike saw the cost jump from ₦2,000 to ₦6,000, sparking outrage among subscribers who took to social media to express their frustration.
The price adjustment, which took effect earlier this week, came after the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) approved a 50% tariff increase for telecom operators in January. While the regulator had granted approval for moderate price adjustments to reflect rising operational costs, MTN’s steep increase far exceeded expectations.
MTN’s Apology to Customers
In response to the backlash, MTN took to social media on Thursday, adopting an informal and conversational tone in an attempt to calm tensions. In its statement, the telecom giant acknowledged the frustration of its users, admitting that the drastic increase was a misstep.
“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,” 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 company added.
MTN then urged customers not to remain angry, referencing the Valentine’s season and asking for forgiveness. “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.”
Telecom Sector Price Adjustments
As of now, MTN is the first major telecom operator to implement significant price changes, but there are growing concerns that other networks like Airtel and Globacom may soon follow suit. Industry analysts suggest that the NCC’s approval of a 50% tariff increase earlier this year was meant to help telecom operators cope with rising operational costs, including foreign exchange fluctuations, higher energy prices, and inflation.
Despite this, MTN’s sudden and drastic price hike has sparked debate over whether telecom providers are acting in the best interests of consumers. The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has strongly condemned the increase, calling for an immediate reversal and arguing that it places an additional financial burden on Nigerians already struggling with economic hardships.
As public pressure mounts, it remains unclear whether MTN will reconsider its new pricing structure or if other telecom operators will proceed with similar adjustments.
Join our Channel...