With mobile internet becoming increasingly important for work, education, business, and entertainment, many Nigerians are searching for ways to reduce data consumption and stretch their subscriptions further.
MTN Nigeria Chief Executive Officer, Karl Toriola, has now shared practical insights on how to make your data last longer, offering solutions that could help users better manage their internet usage.
Speaking during MTN Nigeria’s “Data on Trial” event in Lagos, Toriola emphasized that effective data management begins with understanding how smartphones consume data daily.
The event also featured presentations from telecommunications experts who explained the hidden factors responsible for rapid data depletion. Here are 6 ways to make your data last longer:
1. Understanding What Consumes Data the Most
One of the key discussions at the event focused on identifying the activities that consume the highest amount of mobile data.
According to MTN’s Senior Core Network Implementation Engineer, Michael Ndukwe, streaming videos, automatic social media playback, app updates, and background processes are among the biggest contributors to data usage.
Apps such as Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube continuously refresh content, often consuming significant amounts of data without users realizing it.
Ndukwe advised subscribers to regularly review their phone’s data usage settings and identify applications that consume the most bandwidth.
2. Why Background Data Could Be Draining Your Subscription
Telecom experts at the event also noted that many smartphone users underestimate the impact of background activity on their data bundles.
Even after an application is closed, it may continue syncing notifications, downloading updates, and refreshing content in the background. These activities can steadily consume mobile data throughout the day.
Users were encouraged to disable background data for non-essential applications while keeping it active only for important communication platforms such as WhatsApp and email services.
3. Wi-Fi Can Help Reduce Data Costs
Another recommendation highlighted during the discussion was the strategic use of Wi-Fi networks.
Toriola noted that connecting to trusted Wi-Fi networks at home, in offices, or other secure locations can significantly reduce dependence on mobile data. This allows subscribers to reserve their data plans for situations where Wi-Fi is unavailable.
However, users were advised to exercise caution when using public Wi-Fi networks, particularly when accessing sensitive information or conducting financial transactions.
4. Adjusting Video Quality Can Save Significant Data
Video streaming remains one of the largest drivers of data consumption across Nigeria.
Experts at the event explained that high-definition videos can quickly exhaust data bundles, especially on social media platforms where videos play automatically.
To address this, subscribers were encouraged to activate data-saving settings, disable autoplay features where possible, and download content through Wi-Fi connections for offline viewing.
These simple adjustments, according to the experts, can have a noticeable impact on overall data consumption.
5. App Updates Often Consume More Data Than Expected
The event also shed light on the impact of automatic app updates.
While software updates are necessary for security and performance improvements, they can consume large amounts of mobile data if downloaded through cellular networks.
Users were advised to configure their devices to download updates only when connected to Wi-Fi, helping to prevent unexpected reductions in available data.
6. Regular Monitoring Remains Essential
Toriola further stressed the importance of monitoring data usage regularly.
Most modern smartphones include built-in tools that allow users to track daily, weekly, and monthly consumption patterns.
By checking these statistics frequently, subscribers can identify unusual spikes and make adjustments before exhausting their data plans.
Industry experts compared the habit to managing personal finances, noting that awareness often leads to more responsible usage.
Also Read: MTN CEO Says Unlimited Mobile Data Does Not Exist Anywhere as Nigerians Raise Concerns Over Data Costs
Growing Need for Smarter Data Management
As internet access continues to play a central role in daily life across Nigeria, learning how to make your data last longer has become increasingly important for millions of users.
With mobile data supporting remote work, online learning, digital banking, social interaction, and entertainment, efficient usage can help consumers reduce costs and maximize the value of their subscriptions.
The recommendations shared by Karl Toriola and MTN’s technical team highlight simple but effective steps that can help subscribers take greater control of their internet usage at a time when every megabyte matters.
