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 requires internet subscribers to pay N6,000 for a 15GB weekly data plan—an increase from the previous N2,000—took many customers by surprise and led to an outrage on social media on Wednesday.
In a message shared on social media on Thursday, MTN, in an informal, conversational tone, acknowledged the frustration of its customers and sought to address the growing discontent among users who had grown accustomed to the affordable rates previously offered.
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 continued the apology by urging 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.”
For now, only MTN has increased prices, but Airtel and Globacom are expected to follow after the Nigerian Communications Commission approved a 50% tariff increase in January.
