MTN Explains Why Nigerians’ Mobile Data Finishes Quickly

MTN Nigeria has explained why subscribers may exhaust their internet data bundles faster than expected, pointing to video streaming, automatic downloads, background applications and cloud backups as major causes of high data consumption. The company’s explanation comes amid persistent complaints from Nigerians about how quickly their data subscriptions run out, sometimes leaving users questioning whether their network providers are deducting data unfairly. Speaking at a forum titled “Data on Trial” in Abuja on Monday, MTN Nigeria’s General Manager of Network Performance, Mike Ndukwe, said data consumption was largely influenced by subscribers’ online activities and smartphone settings. “We’re not stealing your data. However, we completely understand how it feels, especially right now, where every amount counts. But the honest answer is that data is not taken without an action, either your action or your phone,” Ndukwe said. He identified platforms such as TikTok, YouTube, Instagram and WhatsApp as potential sources of significant data consumption, depending on video quality, autoplay settings and automatic media downloads. According to Ndukwe, a 15-second TikTok video could consume between two and 20 megabytes, depending on its quality. He also warned that WhatsApp users could exhaust their bundles through automatically downloaded videos, status updates and group media. He advised subscribers to disable automatic downloads and adjust application settings to reduce unnecessary consumption. MTN’s General Manager of IT Operations, David Ogunsola, also explained that differences between data usage displayed on smartphones and figures recorded by network operators could arise from variations in measurement methods, background traffic and session timing. He said such differences could range from two per cent to about 12 per cent in some circumstances. MTN Chief Executive Officer Karl Toriola, meanwhile, highlighted the cost of powering and maintaining telecommunications infrastructure, saying operators faced substantial electricity and transportation expenses. The company also encouraged subscribers to monitor their consumption through phone settings and the MyMTN application. The Nigerian Communications Commission similarly advises consumers to examine their data plans and usage patterns when investigating rapid depletion. Its guidance notes that streaming, advertisements on websites and shared data connections can contribute to consumption. Subscribers who suspect incorrect deductions are encouraged to contact their service providers and request a complaint reference number. If the issue remains unresolved, they can escalate the complaint to the NCC. As data usage continues to grow, understanding application settings and monitoring consumption may help subscribers manage their bundles more effectively.