In the ever-evolving world of mobile data in Nigeria, competition among network providers continues to deliver better deals for consumers. One of the most popular offerings in recent years is the Night Data Plan — an affordable way for heavy data users to browse, stream, or download during the night hours when network traffic is low.
Who Introduced the Night Plan First?
While many users today associate Airtel with generous night browsing deals, it was actually MTN Nigeria that pioneered the concept. Following a major upgrade to their systems, MTN rolled out a variety of surprisingly affordable data plans — a move that took many by surprise and disrupted the market.
Not one to be outdone, Airtel Nigeria responded by launching its own night plans, adding attractive incentives and slight improvements to win over subscribers.
The Night Plans Explained
These late-night data bundles have been humorously nicknamed by users with terms like “Don’t Sleep Plan,” “TDB” (Till Day Break), and more. They are particularly ideal for:
- Users who need to download large files
- Night owls who prefer browsing at midnight
- Students or professionals with heavy data needs
And here’s the best part: Network speed at night is often faster and more stable, thanks to reduced traffic.
Let’s break down what each network offers:
MTN Night Plans
MTN 500MB for N25 (Midnight Plan)
- Time: 12:00 a.m – 4:00 a.m
- Price: N25
- Subscription Code:
- Migrate to MTN iPulse by dialing
*406#or texting406to131 - Ensure you have at least N30 airtime
- Send NIGHT to
131 - You’ll receive confirmation that your night plan is active
- Migrate to MTN iPulse by dialing
Best for: Light downloads, social media browsing, and YouTube streaming on low resolution.
MTN Larger Night Plans
If 500MB isn’t enough, MTN has broader options available at night:
| Plan | Data | Time | Price | Subscription Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MTN Night Plan 1 | 1GB | 9 p.m – 6 a.m | N200 | Dial *198#, then press 2, then 8 |
| MTN Night Plan 2 | 2.5GB | 9 p.m – 6 a.m | N500 | Same method |
| MTN Night Plan 3 | 5GB | 9 p.m – 6 a.m | N1000 | Same method |
Best for: Streaming HD content, online gaming, and bulk file downloads.
READ MORE: Get Airtel 500mb For N25 And 1.5gb For N50
Airtel Night Plans
Airtel didn’t just copy MTN’s night data offerings — it added more value, especially in terms of time and volume.
Airtel 500MB for N25 & 1.5GB for N50
- Time: 12:00 a.m – 5:00 a.m
- Price: N25 for 500MB, N50 for 1.5GB
- Steps to Activate:
- Migrate to Airtel SmartTrybe by dialing
*312#, then reply with1 - Dial
*312#again and choose:3for the Night Plan options- Select either 500MB for N25 or 1.5GB for N50
- Migrate to Airtel SmartTrybe by dialing
Extra advantage: Airtel offers one extra hour compared to MTN, ending at 5 a.m instead of 4 a.m.
Airtel Bonus Plans and Extras
Airtel also spices things up with other SmartTrybe offers:
- 1GB for N500 – Valid for 7 days (great for moderate daily use)
- Weekend Special: N200 for 200MB + 30 minutes Airtel-to-Airtel calls (valid on Saturdays and Sundays)
- Free 15MB Bonus: Valid for 7 days after every N200 recharge
- SmartTrybe Tariff: Call all Nigerian networks at just 11k/sec (N6.60/min)
Airtel vs MTN: Which One Should You Choose?
| Feature | MTN | Airtel |
|---|---|---|
| Night Data Validity | 12 a.m – 4 a.m | 12 a.m – 5 a.m |
| Base Night Plan | 500MB for N25 | 500MB for N25 |
| Extra Night Plan | Up to 5GB for N1,000 | 1.5GB for N50 |
| Tariff Plan | iPulse | SmartTrybe |
| Bonus Calls & Data | Not available | Available on SmartTrybe |
If you’re after raw speed and high capacity, MTN might be your go-to. However, Airtel offers better value for lower prices and includes helpful extras like bonus data and cheaper call rates.
Final Thoughts
Both Airtel and MTN have revolutionized late-night data usage in Nigeria. With affordable prices, generous data volumes, and fast night-time browsing speeds, these Night Plans are perfect for students, creatives, downloaders, and budget-conscious users.
If you’ve been ignoring these plans, it’s time to reconsider. Whether you’re streaming, downloading, or simply staying connected, night plans offer unbeatable value for every Nigerian internet user.
Have you tried any of these night plans? Which one works best for you — MTN or Airtel? Drop your comments below and don’t forget to share this guide!
