It is important to remember that if you are currently using Airtel Nigeria and are looking to change your tariff plan, then you have come to the right place.
The purpose of this guide is to provide you with everything you need to know about how to change your tariff plan on Airtel Nigeria, including the steps, available plans, pricing, pros and cons, and some insider tips that will help you get through the process smoothly.
Key Takeaways
- Airtel offers a range of tariff plans tailored to different users, from talk-time heavy plans like SmartTalk to data-focused ones like SmartTrybe.
- You can change your tariff plan easily using USSD codes, the Airtel app, or customer service.
- Choose the right plan based on your usage habits, whether you prioritize calls, data, or both.
- Promotions and bonuses often sweeten the deal, so look out for those to maximize your plan.
Why Change Your Airtel Tariff Plan?
You might wonder: Why change your tariff plan in the first place?
The way we use mobile phones has evolved constantly in today’s fast-paced world. Changing your tariff plan can result in better savings, more data, or cheaper calls, whether you travel frequently, use data more than usual, or just want to optimize your calls and data usage. With Airtel Nigeria, you can choose from a variety of tariff plans based on your needs, including plans that focus on talk time, data, or a combination of both. Depending on your lifestyle, you can even customize your plan.
“On my last trip to Lagos, I realized that I was spending more on data than I should have. Switching my plan to Airtel’s SmartTrybe gave me the perfect balance of calls and data at an affordable price. The change was quick, and now I can navigate the city without any worries about running out of data during my adventures.”
Types of Tariff Plans Offered by Airtel Nigeria
Airtel offers several tariff plans designed to cater to different types of users. Here’s a look at the most popular ones:
1. SmartTrybe
- Best for: Youth and light users
- Features: Free calls to all Airtel numbers, affordable data rates, and bonus minutes on recharge
- Cost: N100 for 1GB of data and N11 per minute for calls to non-Airtel numbers
- Pros:
- Great for young people and social users
- Offers a decent mix of data and voice services
- Frequent bonus offers
- Cons:
- Limited to Airtel-to-Airtel calls for the best deals
- Not ideal for heavy data users
2. SmartTalk
- Best for: People who make a lot of calls
- Features: Cheap calls to all networks
- Cost: N11 per minute for calls to other networks and N5 per minute for Airtel-to-Airtel calls
- Pros:
- Very affordable for heavy talk time users
- International calling options available
- Cons:
- Data is not as cheap as other plans
- Limited data bundles
3. SmartValue
- Best for: Data enthusiasts
- Features: High-speed data and affordable call rates
- Cost: N100 for 1GB, with a bonus for recharges
- Pros:
- Good for data-heavy activities like streaming
- Reasonable cost for voice and data
- Cons:
- Bonus data is often subject to conditions
- Calls to other networks can be pricey
4. Airtel Family and Friends
- Best for: Family or group plan users
- Features: Discounted calls to selected numbers
- Cost: Varies based on the plan but is usually affordable
- Pros:
- Great for families or close-knit groups
- Provides heavy discounts for calls
- Cons:
- Only available for a limited set of numbers
- Doesn’t include data benefits
How to Change Your Tariff Plan on Airtel Nigeria
Now that you know why you might want to change your tariff plan, let’s get down to the real business: how to actually change it.
1. Using USSD Codes
Airtel Nigeria makes it super simple to change your tariff plan with USSD codes. This method is fast, efficient, and works for most users. Simply follow these steps:
- Dial
*312#on your phone - You’ll receive a menu with all available plans
- Choose the plan you want to switch to by following the on-screen instructions
2. Via the Airtel App
If you’re a smartphone user and prefer a more visual interface, the Airtel app provides a simple way to change your plan.
Here’s how:
- Download and open the Airtel app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- Log in using your Airtel number.
- Navigate to the Tariff Plan section.
- Browse through the available plans, and select the one that best fits your needs.
- Confirm your selection and follow the prompts.
3. Using Airtel Customer Service
If you’re having trouble with the USSD code or the app, Airtel’s customer service is always a reliable backup. Call 111 (from your Airtel line) and ask to change your tariff plan. A customer service representative will guide you through the process.
“During one of my road trips across the country, I had to change my plan, and I found it easier to just call Airtel’s customer service. The team was quick and helpful, and they switched my plan without any hassle.”
Pricing and Ratings
Pricing for Airtel’s tariff plans is flexible, with options starting from as low as N100 for 1GB on some plans. The ratings and reviews are generally positive, especially for users who prioritize affordable data packages. Here’s a quick breakdown of some popular plans:
| Plan | Price for 1GB | Data Validity | Call Rate (to other networks) | Call Rate (Airtel to Airtel) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SmartTrybe | N100 | 1 day | N11/minute | N5/minute |
| SmartTalk | N150 | 1 day | N11/minute | N5/minute |
| SmartValue | N100 | 1 day | N20/minute | N5/minute |
Insider Tips: Maximize Your Airtel Tariff Plan
Switching your plan is just the beginning. To get the most out of your Airtel tariff plan, consider these tips:
1. Use Data Bundles Wisely
If you’re on a data-heavy plan, make sure to activate your data bundles as soon as possible to avoid running out mid-month. Airtel offers great bonus data with certain plans, so keep an eye on those promotions!
2. Watch Out for Expiry
Some of the tariffs and bonuses expire within a day or a week, so make sure to use them before the expiry date. It can save you money in the long run.
3. Opt for Regular Recharge Promotions
Airtel frequently runs promotions offering free bonus data or discounted call rates when you recharge a certain amount. Keep an eye on these for added value.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I change my Airtel tariff plan anytime?
Yes, you can change your tariff plan at any time. There are no restrictions on how often you can switch plans.
2. Will I lose my data or call credits when changing plans?
No, you will not lose your remaining data or call credits when switching plans. However, it’s a good idea to double-check with customer service if you’re unsure.
3. How can I get more data or bonuses on my plan?
Airtel frequently offers promotional deals, so keep an eye out for recharge bonuses or special data offers. You can also explore bundle options in the app.
4. How do I check my current tariff plan?
Dial *121# to check your current tariff plan and the available balances for data and airtime.
Conclusion
Switching your Airtel tariff plan is a simple and rewarding process, whether you want to save on calls, enjoy more data, or get the best of both worlds. By understanding your usage patterns and selecting the right plan, you’ll be able to optimize your mobile experience in Nigeria. Stay connected, save more, and make the most of your Airtel service with the tips I’ve shared!
