By Daniel Tyokua
MTN Nigeria has implemented 50 per cent price increment of its data subscriptions as telecommunications operators in Nigeria have begun the implementation of the 50% price increment recently approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).
The revised MTN data prices showed that MTN’s 1.8GB monthly plan now goes for N1,500, replacing the previous 1.5GB plan priced at N1,000.
It 20GB plan has been adjusted to N7,500, up from N5,500, while the 15GB plan now costs N6,500, a rise from N4,500.
While text message now N6.00, other mobile operators comprising Airtel, Globacom, and 9mobile are yet to update their data prices as of the time of filling this report, all the networks are now charging N6.00 for text messages, instead of the previous N4.00.
The increment in the price of text message reflects the 50% approved by the NCC.
According to telecom industry sources, the telcos got the final approval for their new tariff plans on Monday and all the operators are in the process of adjusting their data and voice plans.
Speaking at a forum two weeks ago, the Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) Engr. Gbenga Adebayo disclosed that all the operator had sent their new tariff plans to the NCC and were awaiting approval.
The NCC had on January 20 announced that it had approved a 50% tariff adjustment for telecom operators, citing rising operational costs and the need to sustain the industry.
The Commission in a statement signed by the Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka, said the decision underlines the Commission’s regulatory role under Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003.
However, the National Association of Telecommunications Subscribers (NATCOMS) has threatened to challenge the approved tariff hike in court.
