Nigerians Lament as Mobile Data Prices Skyrocket Amid Economic Hardship

Nigerians have taken to social media to express frustration after waking up to a shocking increase in mobile data tariffs by telecom operators.

Many users reported that data plans that previously cost ₦2,000 for 15GB now cost as much as ₦6,000, a drastic surge that has sparked widespread outrage.

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The sudden hike has led to telcos trending on X, with users calling for urgent intervention from authorities.

This development comes despite the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) capping the approved tariff adjustment at 50%, though some users argue that the recent increase has far exceeded this limit.

The NCC had, in January 2025, approved a tariff review for telecom operators, following their plea for cost-reflective pricing due to rising operational expenses.

However, the latest increments have left many questioning if telcos have gone beyond the approved threshold.

A user, @Gorilla23mp, raised concerns, stating, “But this is almost 200% increment, I thought they said it won’t be up to 100%?”

Meanwhile, others have expressed their frustration over the impact of these price hikes on their daily lives.

@AfrokonnectNG lamented, “This sudden price increase from ₦2,000 to ₦6,000 for 15GB is wild! How are people supposed to cope with such an outrageous hike? Internet access is essential for work, education, and staying connected, yet it’s being priced like a luxury.”

Moreover, the economic downturn has already placed significant financial pressure on Nigerians, and this latest increase in mobile data costs only worsens the situation.

Many have argued that internet access should not be a luxury but a necessity, especially in a digital age where businesses, students, and remote workers rely on stable connectivity.

Some users fear that if no action is taken, accessing the internet may soon become unaffordable for the average Nigerian.

While some have vowed to reduce their data consumption, others, like @GIFTy6286, have responded with resilience, saying, “If they like, they should increase it to ₦1 million, we will survive.”

Meanwhile, there have been growing calls for the government and regulatory agencies to take decisive action to prevent further hikes and ensure that telecom services remain affordable.

Many believe that an open dialogue between the government, telecom operators, and consumers is necessary to find a fair balance.

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