MTN CEO Says ‘Unlimited Data’ Is a Myth, Nigerians Abroad Push Back

LAGOS, Nigeria — MTN Nigeria Chief Executive Officer Karl Toriola has sparked debate after stating that truly unlimited mobile data plans do not exist anywhere in the world unless consumers are willing to pay extremely high prices.

Toriola made the remarks during MTN Nigeria’s “Data on Trial” stakeholder engagement forum in Lagos, where the telecommunications company addressed growing consumer concerns over data pricing, network quality and allegations of rapid data depletion.

According to him, network operators face practical limitations in providing unrestricted data access while maintaining service quality.

“The issue of unlimited data on mobile networks: it doesn’t exist anywhere in the world except if you’re paying a fortune. There’s a limit because you can never build enough capacity for everyone to be on an unlimited bundle, and you think you’ll provide a quality of service that is decent,” Toriola said.

'The issue of unlimited data on mobile networks: it doesn't exist anywhere in the world except if you're paying a fortune.' says Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MTN Nigeria, Karl Toriola. pic.twitter.com/WYx5yhbtR7

— RainSMedia360.com (@RainSMedia360) June 7, 2026

Nigerians Abroad Challenge Claim

The comments have generated reactions on social media, particularly from Nigerians living abroad, many of whom disputed the claim and shared screenshots of mobile subscriptions in countries such as the United Kingdom, Canada and parts of Europe that are marketed as unlimited data plans.

Several users argued that such plans are available at relatively affordable prices compared to local income levels, with some claiming their monthly subscriptions cost no more than a few hours’ wages under minimum wage standards.

Industry experts note, however, that many so-called “unlimited” plans offered by telecom operators globally are often subject to fair usage policies, speed throttling, network management restrictions or other limitations once subscribers exceed certain data thresholds.

MTN Defends Pricing, Plans Network Expansion

The debate comes as MTN Nigeria continues to defend its pricing structure amid public criticism over rising telecommunications costs. Toriola recently argued that mobile data in Nigeria remains among the cheapest globally, even after the Nigerian Communications Commission approved tariff adjustments earlier this year.

At the same stakeholder forum, MTN announced plans to invest about ₦1 trillion in network expansion and upgrades in 2026 as part of efforts to improve service quality and increase capacity. The company also unveiled measures aimed at improving transparency around data consumption and billing.

The controversy over unlimited data reflects broader concerns among Nigerian telecom subscribers, many of whom have complained about data costs, network performance and perceived inconsistencies in data usage tracking.

MTN has maintained that its systems accurately record data consumption and has invited independent scrutiny of its billing processes to help address customer concerns.

As discussions continue online, the debate has highlighted the growing demand for affordable, high-capacity internet access in Nigeria, where mobile broadband remains the primary means of connectivity for millions of users.

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A Lagos-based journalist with a passion for disseminating factual information and a deep appreciation for good music, good food, movies, and beautiful cars. He hopes to travel the world someday, documenting its beauty and diverse cultures through his storytelling.