MTN hikes call and SMS tariffs, customers react

DDM News

MTN Nigeria has announced a significant increase in its call and Short Message Service (SMS) charges.

Diaspora digital media (DDM) reviled that the adjustment takes effect immediately and has sparked reactions among subscribers, particularly those on the XtraSpecial tariff plan.

Under the new pricing structure, MTN customers on XtraSpecial will now pay 22 kobo per second for calls across all networks.

Previously, the call rate was 11 kobo per second, meaning the new tariff represents a 100% increase in call charges.

Similarly, the cost of sending an SMS has risen from 4 naira to 6 naira, marking a 50% increase.

The sudden tariff revision has left many customers questioning the rationale behind the sharp rise in charges.

The changes follow regulatory approval by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) for telecom operators to adjust their tariffs.

The NCC stated that economic conditions have significantly increased the operational costs of telecom providers, necessitating the tariff adjustment.

However, some industry analysts argue that the increase introduced by MTN surpasses what was expected based on the NCC’s approval.

Many subscribers received notification messages from MTN informing them about the new rates.

The message read: “Y’ello! Enjoy calls at 22 kobo per second to all networks and SMS at 6 naira per message on XtraSpecial.”

While the company presents the new pricing as an opportunity for users, customers are concerned about the affordability of the services.

The economic climate remains tough, and many Nigerians are struggling with the rising cost of living.

Telecommunications companies in Nigeria have faced rising expenses due to inflation, foreign exchange fluctuations, and increasing infrastructure costs.

MTN has not explicitly stated whether these factors directly influenced the new rates.

Many believe that the rising cost of maintaining network infrastructure and expanding coverage played a role in the decision.

Some customers have taken to social media to express concerns about the affordability of mobile communication services.

Many are calling on the NCC to intervene and prevent excessive price hikes beyond what was originally approved.

Despite the backlash, MTN remains a dominant player in the Nigerian telecommunications sector, serving millions of subscribers nationwide.

The company has yet to release an official statement addressing the public reaction to the tariff hike.

As customers adjust to the new pricing, many will watch closely for potential further increases or regulatory intervention.

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