Nigerians Cry Out as Data Prices Soar—5GB Can’t Even Last a Day!

 

Nigerians Decry High Data Tariffs, Alleged Secret Deductions by Telecom Providers

The recent hike in data tariffs by telecommunication companies in Nigeria has sparked outrage among citizens, with many expressing frustration over the rapid depletion of their data bundles. Nigerians who rely on mobile internet for work, communication, and entertainment now find it increasingly difficult to enjoy the value of their money, as data appears to vanish at an alarming rate.

Many users complain that even a 5GB data plan, which previously lasted for days, barely sustains a full day of browsing platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and WhatsApp. This situation has intensified hardship in a country where economic struggles make basic services increasingly unaffordable.

Unjustified Data Depletion?

Beyond the price hikes, users allege that telecom providers are secretly deducting data without justification. Complaints have flooded social media, with Nigerians questioning how their subscriptions disappear so quickly even when used conservatively. The mysterious and often unexplainable depletion of data has led many to believe that service providers are engaging in dubious practices.

"It’s frustrating! I buy 5GB, and before the day ends, it’s all gone—even when I’m not streaming videos. This never used to happen before," said Chukwudi, a digital marketer who depends on mobile data for his work.

A remote worker, Fatima, also shared her ordeal: “I rely on mobile internet for my job, but with these constant deductions, how am I supposed to work? Data is now like a luxury, and it shouldn’t be so in a digital world.”

A Blow to Remote Work and Digital Economy

The impact of these data challenges extends beyond personal inconvenience. Nigeria has a growing number of remote workers, freelancers, and digital entrepreneurs who rely on affordable and reliable internet access to earn a living. The excessive data consumption and higher costs threaten their ability to compete globally, reducing opportunities for young Nigerians in an already tough economy.

With the cost of living skyrocketing, many are forced to choose between basic necessities and staying connected online. This trend could slow Nigeria’s digital economy and discourage tech adoption at a time when other nations are making rapid progress in digital transformation.

Calls for Government Intervention

Many Nigerians are calling on the government and regulatory bodies like the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to intervene. Consumers demand transparency on data usage and pricing, as well as stricter regulations to protect them from unjustified charges.

Telecom companies, on the other hand, argue that operational costs have increased due to inflation, high exchange rates, and infrastructure challenges. However, the public remains unconvinced, insisting that the current pricing model and data depletion patterns are exploitative.

As Nigerians continue to struggle with economic difficulties, affordable and fair access to mobile data remains a crucial issue. Without immediate action, the rising cost and mysterious deductions of data could further widen the digital divide, leaving many disconnected in a world that increasingly depends on the internet for survival.

Have you experienced unexplained data deductions or high costs? Join the conversation and share your thoughts.