Nigerian students kick against MTN increment on data tariff

The National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) has berated MTN Nigeria for increasing data tariff.

NAPS in a statement issued by its National President, Festus Oyewumi on Monday 17th of February, 2025 while describing the hike as ‘exploitation’, noted that the increment will have a catastrophic impact on students’ ability to conduct research and complete projects.

The statement reads partly: “NAPS is outraged and appalled by MTN’s recent decision to increase data tariffs, which will have a catastrophic impact on our students’ ability to conduct research and complete projects. This blatant display of greed and disregard for the welfare of students is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

“Our students rely heavily on data to access online resources, conduct research, and submit assignments, and this increase will make it impossible for many of them to afford the data they need. This is a direct attack on their right to education and will have far-reaching consequences for their academic success and future prospects.

“We condemn MTN’s actions in the strongest possible terms and demand that they immediately reverse the tariff increase. We will not stand idly by while our students are denied the opportunity to succeed due to MTN’s profiteering. We will not be silenced or intimidated by MTN’s attempts to exploit our students for their own financial gain.

NAPS subsequently issued a 10-day ultimatum to MTN to reverse the tariff increase.

“We are giving MTN a 10-day ultimatum to reverse the tariff increase. If they fail to comply, we will be forced to take drastic action, including shutting down their offices nationwide. We will mobilize our members and take to the streets to protest this injustice and ensure that MTN is held accountable for their actions.

“We warn MTN that we will not be ignored or dismissed. We will fight tirelessly to protect the interests of our students and ensure that they have access to affordable and reliable data services. We will not rest until MTN reverses the tariff increase and commits to providing fair and affordable services to our students.

”To MTN, we say: you have 10 days to reverse the tariff increase. If you fail to do so, you will face the full force of our wrath. We will not be silenced, we will not be intimidated, and we will not be ignored.” the statement added.