Telecommunications giant MTN Nigeria is facing renewed criticism from subscribers who claim that recent price hikes have been followed by unexplained depletion of airtime and data bundles. The complaints, which have flooded social media platforms, come amid rising concerns about the transparency and reliability of telecom billing systems in the country.
The backlash intensified after MTN implemented upward adjustments to its data and voice tariffs, citing inflationary pressures, forex instability, and increased operational costs. However, subscribers argue that the changes have not only increased their financial burden but also resulted in faster-than-normal exhaustion of purchased airtime and data.
Several users have taken to Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) to voice their frustrations. One widely shared comment read: “MTN’s airtime has more air than time. Their data runs out before they send it.” The sarcastic remark has come to symbolise what many perceive as systemic issues with the telco’s service delivery.
Subscribers are demanding greater transparency, particularly in data usage tracking. Many have called for real-time monitoring tools and detailed usage logs to help customers understand how their data is consumed.
Consumer advocates have also raised concerns, urging the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to launch a thorough investigation into the billing systems of telecom operators. They argue that without proper oversight, subscribers will continue to face unexplained deductions and poor value for money.
In response to previous complaints, MTN Nigeria has maintained that its billing systems are accurate and operate within regulatory standards. However, the latest wave of discontent suggests a growing trust deficit that the company may need to address more proactively.
As digital access becomes increasingly central to everyday life, from online learning to remote work and mobile banking, consumers say they deserve not just better service, but accountability and fairness in what they pay for.
The calls for action are getting louder, and for MTN, restoring customer confidence may now require more than just assurances — it may require systemic change.
The Veteran public affairs analyst and former presidential aide, Paul C. Nwabuikwu, has taken a swipe at telecommunications giant, MTN Nigeria, over what he describes as the unexplained depletion of airtime and data bundles.
In a post that has since gained traction on Facebook, Nwabuikwu lamented: “MTN’s airtime has more air than time. Their data runs out before they send it.” The comment, although laced with sarcasm, struck a serious nerve among social media users who echoed similar frustrations.
The post quickly gathered momentum, recording 57 views, 9 comments, and 3 shares at the time of reporting. One of the most notable responses came from Cordelia Onu, who replied: “So I am not the only one complaining?” Her question captured the sentiment of many consumers who have long raised concerns over the quality and transparency of telecom services in Nigeria.
Nwabuikwu responded, “No. There are at least two of us,” a remark that underscored the widespread dissatisfaction with what many users see as inconsistent billing and data usage metrics.
The online conversation reflects growing consumer agitation over service delivery by telecom operators, particularly MTN, which holds the largest market share in Nigeria’s telecom industry. Complaints over fast-draining data, unsolicited deductions, and poor customer care continue to dominate online forums.
While MTN Nigeria has previously maintained that its billing systems are accurate and compliant with industry standards, calls for greater transparency and regulatory oversight have intensified in recent months.
With data services becoming increasingly central to everyday life — from remote work to online education and digital commerce — subscribers are demanding better value, clearer communication, and more accountability from service providers.
As users continue to voice their grievances, stakeholders in the industry may need to pay closer attention to avoid reputational damage and regulatory backlash. For now, however, consumers like Nwabuikwu and Onu are keeping the pressure on — one post at a time.
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