Nigeria’s leading telecommunications provider, MTN, has issued a public apology following widespread customer outrage over a sharp increase in the price of its 15GB data bundle.
The hike, which saw the cost of the weekly plan rise from ₦2,000 to ₦6,000, sparked significant backlash on social media on Wednesday.
In response to the uproar, MTN acknowledged the concerns of its customers in a statement shared via its social media channels on Thursday. The company adopted a conversational tone in its message, admitting fault and appealing for forgiveness.
“To our 15GB digital bundle lovers, we know you’re upset. We understand how frustrating it must have been to wake up to a 200% increase on your favorite data bundle,” the statement read. “We could offer several explanations, but omo, all that one na story. We admit it was a mistake.”
Continuing its plea, the telecom giant urged customers not to hold onto their frustration. “In this season of love, don’t stay angry with us. Please forgive and forget. You matter to us, and we will never stop showing you how much. Let’s continue our relationship. Thank you for your understanding.”
The price surge follows the Nigerian Communications Commission’s (NCC) recent approval of a 50% tariff increase for telecom services, granted in January. MTN has become the first provider to implement the revised rates, and other operators, including Airtel and Globacom, are expected to follow suit in the coming weeks.
The development has intensified discussions on the affordability of mobile data and the impact of rising costs on consumers. Many customers have taken to social media to demand regulatory intervention, fearing further price hikes across the sector.
