MTN Nigeria network outage: Users report connectivity issues amidst VPN reliance

MTN Nigeria subscribers are currently experiencing significant network disruptions, with widespread reports of degraded internet services. Users across various states have reported difficulties accessing online platforms, with some resorting to Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to maintain connectivity.

According to data from Downdetector, MTN’s network performance has seen a notable decline, per reports from users.

Speed tests – using Google Fibre speed test – indicate a download speed of 7.0 Mbps, an upload speed of 0.5 Mbps, a ping of 34ms, and a jitter of 13ms. These metrics fall below the average performance levels previously recorded for MTN Nigeria, which boasted average download speeds of 38.12 Mbps and upload speeds of 11.64 Mbps.

Users attempting to bypass these issues by utilising VPNS have reported mixed results. While some have achieved marginally better connectivity, others find that speed tests fail to initiate when connected through a VPN, indicating potential throttling or compatibility issues.

Potential causes of the disruption

While MTN Nigeria has yet to release an official statement regarding the current disruptions, several factors could be contributing to the degraded service:

• Infrastructure challenges: Ongoing maintenance or unexpected failures in network infrastructure can lead to service interruptions.
• Cybersecurity threats: Recent reports have highlighted cybersecurity incidents affecting telecom providers in the region, which could impact network stability.
• Regulatory compliance measures: Adjustments to comply with new regulatory standards may temporarily affect service quality.

Without an official explanation from MTN, the exact cause remains speculative.

Regulatory implications and consumer rights

Under Nigerian telecommunications regulations, service providers are obligated to maintain a minimum quality of service (QoS) standard. Prolonged service disruptions without adequate communication can lead to penalties from regulatory bodies such as the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).

Read also: MTN Nigeria records ₦133.7 billion profit in Q1 2025, its first since 2023

Consumers affected by the disruptions have the right to:

• Lodge complaints: Report service issues to MTN’s customer service and escalate unresolved complaints to the NCC.
• Seek compensation: Request compensation for prolonged service outages, as stipulated in the NCC’s consumer code of practice, which the NCC has now deleted from its website.

The NCC has previously emphasised the importance of transparent communication from service providers during outages and expects timely resolutions to service issues.

Reactions from users on X:

AFC_Saks: MTN will just wake up one morning and decide to start moving mad Abi am I the only one experiencing this network failure?

@rukky_nate: The only reason @MTNNG will turn off internet services across Nigeria for hours is simply because there will be no consequences from the government. Nigeria is not a working country. It is a failed state, and MTN is a subset of the overall systemic failure.

@ossynoya: its crazy what MTN and AIRTEL are doing today, mtn especially. not sure if its related to the planned protest today but how do you totally turn off network since 3am today?? there’s the lack of respect for nigerians by everyone thats supposed to serve us.

@mukhtar_usman: I can’t believe a network will just shut down internet service and get away with it. Thought my phone had spoilt at some point last night. MTN God in his infinite mercy will punish you.

@Yemihazan: MTN tripped off since yesterday night, complete shut down till now. No consequences for madness like this in this nonsense country, explains why these networks providers move like retards.

@Giann1_1: MTN is having issues” in big 2025 you are using MTN?

Note: This article will be updated as more information becomes available.