Airtel Nigeria, the country’s second-largest telecom operator, has revised its data pricing structure, implementing a tariff adjustment of up to 50 per cent
By Emma Ogbuehi
Airtel Nigeria, the country’s second-largest telecom operator, has revised its data pricing structure, implementing a tariff adjustment of up to 50 per cent, according to details published on its website on Monday.
The price revision, which affects various data bundles, aligns with ongoing industry concerns over escalating operational costs. The move also comes against the demand by the House of Representatives for the immediate suspension of the 50% hike in telecoms tariff. The lawmakers in making the call, ordered the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, to suspend the tariff increase because of the economic hardship in the country.
The House also decried the poor service delivery from telecom operators and insisted that an increase in tariff should not happen until service improves. The demand by the House came as telecommunications operators in the country began the implementation of the new tariff regime earlier approved by the NCC.
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While Airtel has yet to issue an official statement, our reporter gathered that the move underscores the broader push among telecom operators for a tariff review to cushion the impact of inflation and forex volatility.
Beyond data adjustments, the operator with over 56 million subscribers had also increased voice call tariffs over the weekend.
In its revised price list, Airtel assured customers of continued affordability, stating, “Whatever your data needs are, we have a plan for you. Our fast, affordable, and reliable internet experience will keep you connected anytime, anywhere. To get started, Dial *312#.”
The revised daily and weekly data plans include N50 for 40MB valid for 1 day, N100 for 100MB valid for 1 day, N200 for 200MB valid for 3 days, N350 for 1GB valid for 1 day, N350 for 350MB valid for 7 days, N500 for 750MB plus 1GB YouTube Night and 200MB YouTube Music/Spotify valid for 7 days, N500 for 1GB plus 1GB YouTube Night and 50MB Socials valid for 7 days, N500 for 2GB valid for 2 days, and N1500 for 5GB valid for 7 days.
MTN, Nigeria’s largest telecom provider, had earlier adjusted its data and call tariffs in line with the NCC’s approval.
The revised pricing, implemented over the past week, has seen customers paying more for calls, SMS, and internet usage. In response to the growing outcry, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has vowed to embark on a nationwide strike from March 1, 2025, if telecommunications companies fail to revert to the previous tariff structure.
