Nigeria’s largest telecom operator, MTN, has commenced the gradual implementation of a 50 per cent tariff increase approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission in January.

The adjustment, which is evident in the updated prices of data plans, leaves call and SMS rates unaffected for the time being.

A senior executive from MTN, who doesn’t want to be mentioned, confirmed the development in a conversation with our correspondent on Tuesday.

“Yes, we’ve started updating our price lists.

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

The price adjustments primarily affect several data plans.

For instance, checks by our correspondent on Tuesday revealed that the 1.5GB monthly plan, previously priced at N1,000, has been replaced by a 1.8GB plan now costing N1,500.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.

Larger data bundles have seen even steeper increases.

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

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

The Commission, through its Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka, underscored that the decision aligns with its regulatory mandate under Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003.

However, the National Association of Telecommunications Subscribers has voiced its opposition, threatening legal action against the approved tariff increase.

NATCOMS argued that the hike be reversed to 10 per cent.