Nigerian media personality and radio presenter, Osi Suave, has spoken out in defense of telecommunications giant MTN Nigeria, following public criticisms over recent tariff increases.
In a post via his X handle on March 29, 2025, Osi highlighted the enormous operational challenges and financial commitments faced by MTN, including infrastructure development, security, fuel costs, and tax obligations—arguing that the telco should not be vilified for making necessary adjustments to stay afloat.
“MTN paid millions of dollars for a license, built infrastructure from scratch across Nigeria, laying cables, erecting base stations, while also providing 24/7 security so they don’t get vandalized,” Osi wrote.
“On top of that, they run diesel generators just to keep the network up. Then the government floats the currency, businesses take massive losses, and MTN alone loses 500 billion.”
He further revealed that MTN Nigeria paid a staggering ₦543.9 billion in taxes and levies in 2023 alone, questioning why a company contributing so significantly to national revenue would be expected to endure harsh economic conditions without adjusting its pricing model.
“But somehow, a private company that pays one of the highest taxes in Nigeria and has a responsibility to its shareholders shouldn’t protect its bottom line?” he queried.
Drawing comparisons to other sectors, Osi noted that transport operators, food vendors, and small business owners have all raised their prices in response to inflation and economic pressures.
“Danfo drivers increased their fares. Food vendors increased their prices. Literally, everyone adjusted to survive. But MTN shouldn’t?” he added.
The post comes amid growing backlash from Nigerians over data and voice tariff hikes by telecom companies.
While consumer advocacy groups argue for affordability and regulation, industry stakeholders insist that the economic realities—especially since the naira was floated in mid-2023—have made cost adjustments inevitable.
MTN Nigeria, which is publicly listed on the Nigerian Exchange, is one of the country’s largest private-sector employers and tax contributors.
