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| MTN Nigeria Data Plan Prices Increase: What You Need to Know in 2025 |
Learn why MTN Nigeria increased data plan prices in 2025—covering tariff hikes, reversal of extreme increases, and how to adapt to the new rates
Rising costs in everyday essentials have consumers on edge—and mobile data isn’t spared. In 2025, MTN Nigeria data plan prices increased, stirring public backlash and sweeping changes. Here’s a clear breakdown of what happened, why it matters, and how you can manage your budget smarter.
Why Did MTN Increase Data Prices?
Regulatory Approval of 50% Tariff Hike
In January 2025, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) officially approved a maximum 50% increase on data tariffs across telecom providers to account for inflation and rising operational costs. MTN promptly rolled out its adjustments.
- A 1.5 GB monthly bundle rose from ₦1,000 to ₦1,500.
- The 20 GB plan increased to ₦7,500 (up from ₦5,500).
- The 15 GB plan shifted to ₦6,500 (from ₦4,500).
Controversial 200% Hike Reversed
In early February, MTN attempted a far steeper hike—raising its 15 GB bundle from ₦2,000 to ₦6,000, a 200% increase. The move sparked outrage and widespread calls for a boycott from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC). MTN reversed the steep hike and issued a public apology, promising to “forgive and forget” despite insisting the initial move was a “mistake.”
What Changed: From 50% to 200% – A Quick Breakdown
| Plan | Old Price (₦) | New Price (₦) | % Increase | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5 GB Monthly | 1,000 | 1,500 | +50% | Approved by NCC |
| 15 GB Bundle | 2,000 | 6,000 | +200% | Reversed after backlash |
| 20 GB Bundle | 5,500 | 7,500 | +36% | Approved increase |
How These Changes Affect You
Everyday Costs:
If you relied on modest data plans, expect a noticeable bump in your monthly expenses.
Consumer Sentiment:
The ill-timed 200% hike especially hit consumers hard during a period of overall economic strain, leading to mobilized backlash and social media outrage.
Regulatory Scrutiny:
Organizations such as NATCOMS may challenge these hikes. Despite NCC’s approval, consumers argue the process lacked stakeholder consultation.
How to Deal with Higher Data Costs
Here are a few strategies to manage your data spend:
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Review your usage habits—monitor how much data you consume and how often.
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Switch to optimized bundles—accumulate small weekly plans instead of one large monthly plan if it’s more budget-friendly.
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Use the MyMTN NG app to quickly compare bundle prices and purchase the most affordable option available.
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Explore budget-friendly alternatives such as Glo's Value Packs or Airtel's daily bundles if you’re a light user.
Make smart choices today: open the MyMTN NG App to check latest bundles, grab affordable data options, and stay ahead of price hikes.
MTN Nigeria data plan prices increased significantly in 2025—with a widespread approved 50% hike and a later-reversed 200% increase that left many users frustrated. While price pressures may persist, you can adapt by tracking your usage, selecting data-efficient plans, and leveraging the MyMTN app.
Stay informed, be strategic with your data, and make every megabyte count.
