MTN Nigeria has increased its call rate for Pulse bundle users from N7.8 to N13.8 per minute, marking a 76.92% rise. Before the hike, calls were charged at 13k/second and SMS at N4 each. However, a new rate of 23k/second and N6 per SMS was introduced, translating to N13.8 per minute. This change aligns with the Federal Government’s January 20, 2025, approval of a 50% tariff hike. The new floor price for calls is N9.6 per minute, up from N6.40, with a ceiling price of N50. SMS costs also rose from N4 to N6, while the price of 1GB of data increased from N287.5 to N431.25. The average call price is now N16.5 per minute, up from N11.
In a related development, MTN Nigeria faced backlash after raising the price of its 15GB weekly digital bundle by 200%. The company acknowledged the surprise adjustment and customer dissatisfaction. In a message issued to customers, MTN admitted: “We know how upsetting it must have been to suddenly wake up to a 200 per cent increase on your favourite digital bundle. We could share several reasons and provide explanations, but omo, all that one na story.” It added, “We don cast. We get it and admit it. Let’s just say na mistake. In this love season, don’t stay angry with us. Please forgive and forget. You matter die and we will never stop showing you how much. Let’s continue our relationship. Thank you for your understanding (sic).”
MTN, which holds 51.4% of the market share and boasts 84 million subscribers, also launched a new campaign in Abuja titled “Go Make a Difference (Go M.A.D.).” The initiative aims to inspire residents to take meaningful action towards positive change. The campaign gathered young changemakers, creatives, spoken-word artists, and ordinary Nigerians who wanted to use their talents and voices to spark transformation in their communities. Through interactive sessions and thought-provoking discussions, the activation provided a platform for entrepreneurs and changemakers to share experiences and ideas for social impact. One notable segment was a community-driven impact showcase, where individuals presented success stories of transformation, demonstrating how small, consistent actions can lead to lasting change.
Speaking about the initiative, Ohwofasa Obazenu, Senior Manager of Sales and Trade Development North for MTN Nigeria, stressed the campaign’s purpose: “Go M.A.D. is a movement that empowers Nigerians to act. Whether in business, education or social impact, we want people to know that their bold steps can create a ripple effect of change.”
