Truly unlimited mobile data does not exist globally, says MTN CEO
By Aboki Forex —
MTN Nigeria’s Chief Executive Officer, Karl Toriola, has stated that truly unlimited mobile data plans do not exist anywhere in the world. His comments have sparked fresh criticism from consumers and industry watchers over data depletion and telecom service quality in Nigeria.
Speaking at the company’s #DataonTrial event, Toriola said no operator can offer unlimited mobile data while maintaining quality service for all users. “The issue of unlimited data on mobile network, it does not exist anywhere in the world, except you are paying $400 a month or whatever,” he said. He explained that what many consumers call unlimited plans often come with fair usage policies and hidden limits. Network capacity constraints make it impossible to give every subscriber unrestricted access without hurting service quality, he added.
Toriola denied claims that MTN deliberately depletes subscribers’ data or overcharges customers. He said the company’s billing system is regularly audited by KPMG and monitored by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). He admitted that MTN’s charging structure can be difficult to understand, even for its own employees. He expressed confidence that ongoing investments in fibre-optic infrastructure across Nigeria will improve internet service delivery and reduce disputes over data consumption.
Consumers and public figures have reacted sharply. Activist Omoyele Sowore accused MTN of misleading the public. He argued that many countries offer genuinely unlimited or near-unlimited broadband and mobile data packages at prices more affordable relative to income than what Nigerians pay. Sowore threatened to organise a nationwide “OccupyMTN” protest against poor service and unfair pricing.
Other subscribers shared similar views online. Richard Nnorom called data depletion practices unfair and demanded stronger regulatory oversight. He said internet speeds can be adjusted under fair usage policies, but data limits should not apply to plans marketed as unlimited. Another subscriber, Ezechikelu, accused telecom executives of responding to criticism like politicians. A Canada-based consumer, Olu Jastro, said he pays significantly less for unlimited home internet and a mobile plan abroad than Nigerians pay for lower-quality services.
The debate has increased public scrutiny of Nigeria’s telecom sector. Many subscribers are demanding transparency, better service quality, and clearer explanations of how data usage is measured and billed.
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that MTN Nigeria plans to compensate subscribers affected by poor network quality with airtime credits, following an NCC directive. The NCC said compensation will be issued as airtime due to poor service quality. The company has not specified when the compensation will start.