Telecommunication giant, MTN has started the implementation of a 50 per cent tariff increase approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).

This was disclosed via the updated prices of MTN’s data plans

The price adjustment is however yet to affect call and SMS rates.

A check on Tuesday revealed that the 1.5GB monthly plan, previously priced at N1,000, has been replaced by a 1.8GB plan now costing N1,500.

The 15GB plan has increased from N4,500 to N6,500, while the 20GB plan now costs N7,500, up from N5,500.

The 1.5 terabyte 90-day plan has also increased from N150,000 to N240,000, and the 600GB 90-day plan is now priced at N120,000, up from N75,000.

The development was confirmed by a senior executive at MTN.

The MTN executive, who doesn’t want to be mentioned, said “We’ve started updating our price lists.

“However, this process is gradual, and we haven’t completed it for all products yet.”

The NCC approved the tariff hike on January 20, 2025, citing rising operational costs and the need to ensure the long-term sustainability of the telecommunications sector.

The NCC noted that the decision aligns with its regulatory mandate under Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003.

The approved tariff increase was however greeted with condemnations by scores of Nigerians, including groups and associations.