‘Due to inflation!’ Airtel Joins MTN, Raises Data, Call Rates

OwelekeTV (News, Business) — Airtel Nigeria, the country’s second-largest telecommunications provider, has introduced a significant tariff revision on its data plans, with adjustments reaching up to 50 percent.

The updated pricing structure, which was quietly published on the company’s website on Monday, reflects the growing financial strain on telecom operators due to inflation, foreign exchange fluctuations, and increased operational expenses.

Though Airtel has not released an official statement on the price hike, industry observers view it as part of a broader effort by telecom firms to push for a comprehensive tariff review to mitigate the economic challenges affecting the sector.

Call and Data Rates Rise Amid Economic Pressures

Alongside the changes in data pricing, Airtel also raised voice call tariffs over the weekend, marking a dual increase that impacts both internet and traditional communication services.

The company, which serves over 56 million subscribers, is not alone in this move, as other telecom giants, including MTN Nigeria, have also adjusted their pricing structures.

A senior Airtel official confirmed the price revisions and justified the changes to newsmen on Monday.

“Yes, we have updated data prices today, and they are available on our website. However, the increase is not up to 50 percent,”

the official stated.

Despite the adjustments, Airtel reassured customers of continued affordability and reliable service. In its updated pricing list, the company emphasized its commitment to providing value-driven internet services.

“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#,”

Airtel stated.

Breakdown of New Data Plans

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

N1,500 for 5GB, valid for 7 days

Industry-Wide Adjustments 

Airtel’s price hike follows similar adjustments made by MTN, Nigeria’s largest telecom provider.

Over the past week, MTN subscribers have also experienced increased charges on calls, SMS, and internet usage, as the company adjusts its pricing in line with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) guidelines.

These latest changes underscore the financial difficulties faced by telecom operators, who continue to navigate inflationary pressures, high energy costs, and the rising expenses of network expansion.

While industry stakeholders argue that the adjustments will help sustain long-term service quality and infrastructure development, many subscribers are feeling the pinch as the cost of communication continues to rise.

With Airtel and MTN leading the way, other telecom providers will soon follow suit, signaling a new wave of price hikes across Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.