Airtel Nigeria, the second-largest telecom operator in the country, has introduced a significant revision to its pricing for both data and voice services. The company has increased its data tariffs by up to 50 percent, with the new rates detailed on its official website as of Monday. This move follows a weekend adjustment to voice call tariffs, reflecting the broader industry trend towards tariff adjustments amid rising operational costs.
With over 56 million subscribers, Airtel’s pricing overhaul is poised to affect a wide user base. The telecom giant has not officially commented on the changes but has confirmed through a senior official speaking to The PUNCH that the price adjustments are in response to increased operational expenses. The official noted, “Yes, we have updated data prices today, and they are available on our website. However, the increase is not up to 50 percent.”
New Data Plans
Airtel Nigeria introduced several new data plans to cater to different consumer needs while emphasizing affordability:
Daily Plans: N50 for 40MB valid for 1 day, N100 for 100MB valid for 1 day.
Multi-Day Plans: N200 for 200MB valid for 3 days, N350 for 1GB valid for 1 day.
Weekly Plans: N350 for 350MB valid for 7 days, N500 for 750MB plus additional benefits like 1GB YouTube Night, 200MB YouTube Music/Spotify valid for 7 days, N500 for 1GB plus 1GB YouTube Night and 50MB Socials for 7 days, N500 for 2GB valid for 2 days, and N1500 for 5GB valid for 7 days.
Industry-Wide Adjustments
The tariff hike by Airtel is part of a larger trend where telecom companies are seeking to adjust pricing to offset inflation, foreign exchange volatility, and the costs associated with network expansion. MTN Nigeria, the market leader, has also recently adjusted its tariffs for data and calls, following the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) approvals.
Economic Context
The telecom industry’s struggle with economic pressures like inflation and currency fluctuations has necessitated these operational adjustments. While these price increases are intended to ensure the sustainability and improvement of services, they place additional financial strain on consumers who are now facing higher costs for communication.
Customer Assurance
Despite the hikes, Airtel has reassured its customers of continued service quality, stating, “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 telecom sector’s move to revise tariffs underscores the delicate balance companies must maintain between profitability, service quality, and customer affordability, especially in an economically challenging environment.
