MTN Nigeria has quietly removed its yearly, 6-month, and 3-month data plans from its offerings, leaving many subscribers scrambling for alternatives. While no official statement has been issued by the telecom giant, this sudden change could be linked to the recent price hike approval by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).

For years, MTN’s long-term data plans have been a popular choice among customers looking for cost-effective and stable internet access. However, with their abrupt disappearance, users are left wondering whether this is a temporary measure or a sign of bigger changes to come in Nigeria’s telecom industry. In this post, we’ll examine why this move happened, what it means for consumers, and what alternatives you can explore.

MTN’s Long-Term Data Plans: A Game Changer Now Gone

Before this sudden removal, MTN offered flexible 3-month, 6-month, and 12-month (yearly) data plans that allowed customers to buy large data bundles at discounted rates compared to monthly subscriptions. These plans were particularly beneficial for heavy internet users, businesses, and those looking to avoid the hassle of frequent renewals.

The removed data plans included:

Yearly Data Plan

• 120GB – ₦110,000 (valid for 365 days)
• 400GB – ₦242,000 (valid for 365 days)
• 600GB – ₦363,000 (valid for 365 days)
• 1TB – ₦484,000 (valid for 365 days)

6-Month Data Plan

• 100GB – ₦60,000 (valid for 180 days)
• 200GB – ₦120,000 (valid for 180 days)
• 400GB – ₦242,000 (valid for 180 days)

3-Month Data Plan

• 60GB – ₦30,000 (valid for 90 days)
• 120GB – ₦60,000 (valid for 90 days)
• 200GB – ₦120,000 (valid for 90 days)

With these long-term options now unavailable, customers are left with only daily, weekly, and monthly plans, which may not provide the same level of value for money. Many users have reported checking the MyMTN app and USSD codes, only to find that these plans no longer appear as options.

Possible Reasons for the Removal

Although MTN has not officially confirmed why these plans were pulled down, several factors could be at play:

1. Anticipation of NCC-Approved Price Hike

In recent months, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) approved a price hike for telecom services, including calls, data, and SMS rates. While the exact implementation date is yet to be announced, it is likely that MTN is adjusting its pricing structure ahead of this increase. Removing the long-term plans now might allow the company to reintroduce them later at higher rates.

2. Rising Operational Costs

The devaluation of the naira, inflation, and rising cost of operations have affected several industries in Nigeria, and the telecom sector is no exception. Providing long-term data plans at discounted rates may no longer be sustainable for MTN, especially if it struggles with higher equipment and maintenance costs.

3. Encouraging More Frequent Subscriptions

By removing long-term plans, MTN may be nudging customers toward shorter-duration subscriptions, ensuring they pay more over time. A monthly plan renewed 12 times a year could generate more revenue than a single yearly plan with a discount.

4. Changes in Consumer Behavior

With more Nigerians relying on WiFi networks and fiber optic internet for home use, long-term mobile data subscriptions may be declining in popularity. If MTN has seen a drop in demand for these plans, it could be an internal decision to phase them out.

How This Affects You

If you previously relied on MTN’s 3-month, 6-month, or yearly data plans, this change means you will now have to subscribe more frequently to stay connected. This could lead to higher costs over time, especially if MTN increases the prices of its remaining plans.

For businesses and individuals who depend on uninterrupted internet access, this move might force them to seek alternative providers or reconsider their budget for data expenses.

Alternative Data Options

With MTN’s long-term plans now unavailable, here are some alternative options to consider:

1. Explore Other Network Providers

MTN is not the only telecom provider in Nigeria. Airtel, Glo, and 9mobile still offer competitive data plans, some of which include long-term options. Checking their current data offerings may help you find a suitable replacement.

2. Consider Fiber Optic or Home WiFi Solutions

If you consume a lot of data, investing in a home WiFi or fiber optic connection might be a more cost-effective option. Providers like Spectranet, Swift, Tizeti, and Smile offer unlimited or high-cap data packages at fixed monthly rates.

3. Look for Promo and Data Bundles

Telecom providers frequently introduce promotional bundles that may offer better value than regular subscriptions. Keep an eye out for MTN’s double data promos, special offers, and night plans that could help stretch your budget.

4. Use Data-Saving Techniques

Until more affordable options are available, using data-saving techniques can help manage costs:

• Enable data-saving modes on your devices.
• Reduce video streaming quality on apps like YouTube and Netflix.
• Turn off background data for apps that don’t need internet access.
• Download large files over WiFi instead of mobile data.

Will These Plans Return?

There is a possibility that these long-term data plans might return in the next few days once the price increase is finalized. However, if they do return, they might come back at significantly higher prices, in line with the NCC-approved adjustments.

What’s Next for MTN Users?

While it’s unclear whether MTN’s long-term data plans will return, one thing is certain—data prices in Nigeria are likely to increase in the coming months. If you rely on MTN for your internet needs, now is the time to assess your options, compare data plans, and adjust your spending habits accordingly.

We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available. Stay connected and make informed decisions to get the best value for your money!