MTN Nigeria has apologized to its customers after a sharp 200% increase in the price of its 15GB weekly data bundle led to widespread outrage. Many users took to social media on Wednesday to express frustration over the sudden change, which raised the cost from N2,000 to N6,000 without prior notice.
In response to the backlash, MTN issued a public apology on Thursday through a message shared on its social media pages. Using a casual and conversational tone, the company acknowledged customers’ frustration over the unexpected price jump.
The message read: “To our 15G 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.
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.”
MTN further urged customers to move past their anger, especially during the season of love, saying: “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.”
While MTN is the first telecom provider to implement this price hike, there are speculations that Airtel and Globacom may follow suit. In January, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) approved a 50% tariff increase for telecom companies, making it likely that other providers will adjust their pricing in the coming months.
However, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has strongly opposed the move, calling for an immediate reversal of the tariff increase. The labor group argues that higher data prices will further strain Nigerians who are already struggling with rising costs of living.
