Airtel Nigeria, the country’s second-largest telecom provider, has adjusted its data pricing structure, implementing increases of up to 50%, according to information published on its website on Monday. The tariff revision, which affects multiple data bundles, reflects the ongoing financial challenges within the industry, including escalating operational expenses, inflation, and foreign exchange volatility.

While Airtel has yet to issue an official statement on the changes, the revision aligns with a broader push among telecom operators for tariff reviews to cushion the impact of economic pressures.

Increase in Voice and Data Tariffs

In addition to revising its data pricing, Airtel—boasting a subscriber base of over 56 million—has also increased voice call rates over the weekend. A senior Airtel official confirmed the development in a conversation with FRONTPAGE on Monday, clarifying that while there was an adjustment, the increase did not reach the 50% threshold.

“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 price changes, Airtel reassured customers of its commitment to affordability, emphasizing that it continues to offer various plans suited to different data needs. “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 company stated in its revised price list.

New Airtel Data Plans

The updated daily and weekly data plans include:

• ₦50 for 40MB (valid for 1 day)
• ₦100 for 100MB (valid for 1 day)
• ₦200 for 200MB (valid for 3 days)
• ₦350 for 1GB (valid for 1 day)
• ₦350 for 350MB (valid for 7 days)
• ₦500 for 750MB + 1GB YouTube Night and 200MB YouTube Music/Spotify (valid for 7 days)
• ₦500 for 1GB + 1GB YouTube Night and 50MB Socials (valid for 7 days)
• ₦500 for 2GB (valid for 2 days)
• ₦1500 for 5GB (valid for 7 days)

MTN Also Adjusts Tariffs

Airtel is not the only telecom provider implementing price adjustments. MTN Nigeria, the nation’s largest telecom operator, has also revised its data and call tariffs, following regulatory approvals from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). Over the past week, MTN subscribers have experienced increased costs for calls, SMS, and internet usage.

The latest price hikes across telecom providers stem from the need to manage inflation, foreign exchange fluctuations, and rising network expansion costs. While these adjustments are aimed at ensuring long-term service improvements, they also pose financial challenges for consumers, who now have to pay more for essential communication services.