Nigeria’s leading telecom provider, MTN, has issued a public apology following backlash over a 200% increase in the price of its 15GB weekly data plan, which jumped from N2,000 to N6,000.
The sudden hike, which caught subscribers off guard, sparked outrage across social media on Wednesday. In response, MTN took to social media on Thursday, addressing customers in an informal and conversational tone, acknowledging their frustration.
MTN’s Apology
“To our 15GB digital bundle lovers. You dey vex. We know. We know how upsetting it must have been to wake up to a 200% increase on your favorite data plan,” the message read.
The telecom giant admitted its misstep, stating, “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 then urged customers to “forgive and forget”, emphasizing that they remain a priority:
“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.”
Industry-Wide Tariff Hike Looms
While MTN is currently the only provider to have adjusted its prices, other telecom giants like Airtel and Globacom are expected to follow suit. This comes after the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) approved a 50% tariff increase in January.
However, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has strongly condemned the price adjustments, demanding an immediate reversal of the tariff hike by telecom companies.
