Nigeria’s largest telecom operator, MTN, has issued a public apology to its customers following widespread complaints about a sudden 200% increase in the price of its popular 15GB data bundle. The price hike, which saw the cost of the bundle rise from N2,000 to N6,000, took many customers by surprise and led to an outrage on social media.
In a message shared on social media, MTN acknowledged the frustration of its customers and sought to address the growing discontent among users. The message read, “To our 15G digital bundle lovers… 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… We get it and admit it. Let’s just say na mistake.”
MTN urged customers not to stay angry, 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.”
The price hike has been met with widespread criticism, with the Nigeria Labour Congress condemning the implementation of a 50% tariff hike by telecommunication companies and demanding an immediate reversal. For now, only MTN has increased prices, but Airtel and Globacom are expected to follow suit after the Nigerian Communications Commission approved a 50% tariff increase in January.
The development has sparked concerns about the impact of the price hike on Nigerians, particularly those who rely heavily on mobile data for their daily activities. Many have taken to social media to express their disappointment and frustration with MTN’s decision. Despite the apology, it remains to be seen whether MTN’s customers will forgive and forget, or if the company will face a backlash in the form of lost subscriptions.
