How To Stop Auto-Renewal on Data Subscriptions on all networks
Stop Data Auto renewal on MTN, Glo, Airtel, and 9Mobile
Tired of surprise deductions after your data expires? You’re not alone. Auto-renewal silently eats up airtime across all Nigerian networks—MTN, Airtel, Glo, and 9Mobile. Here’s how to shut it down for good—with actual working codes tested in 2025.
If you’ve ever loaded your phone with ₦1,000 only to watch it vanish into a data plan you didn’t intend to renew—this guide is for you. Most Nigerian networks enable auto-renewal by default, and many subscribers don’t realize they’ve opted in until it’s too late. I’ve been there. I’ve also tested the cancellation process on MTN, Glo, and Airtel this year to make sure what you’re about to read actually works.
Never lose airtime to unwanted subscriptions again—here’s how to turn off data auto-renewal for all major Nigerian networks.
What is auto-renewal on Data Subscriptions?
If you subscribe to a data plan, you will be prompted to turn on auto-renewal. This option helps your data to automatically renew itself when your data is exhausted. You will automatically be subscribed to the same data plan as long as you have enough airtime for the subscription.
Quick Summary Table
| Network | Cancel Auto-Renewal (USSD) | SMS Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| MTN | *312# → Data Plans → Manage → Cancel | None |
| Airtel | Same as MTN | None |
| Glo | Same USSD steps | Text C RDC to 1010 |
| 9Mobile | Use app or contact support | Varies by plan |
Why You Should Care About Auto-Renewal
Let’s say you top up ₦2,000 to make a call or buy a social plan—then boom, your airtime disappears. Why? Because your old data bundle quietly renewed in the background.
This is auto-renewal, and by default, most Nigerian networks enable it without asking twice. For people on tight budgets or switching networks, this can be incredibly frustrating.
Benefits of Auto-Renewal (When It Works for You)
- Rollover Data: Some networks let unused data roll into the next plan if you auto-renew.
- No Disruption: You stay online without manually subscribing every time.
But here’s the catch—it only benefits you when you’re expecting it.
Why Auto-Renewal Can Be a Problem
- Surprise Charges: You lose airtime to plans you didn’t mean to renew.
- Wrong Timing: Auto-renews when you don’t even need data.
- No Refunds: Once it activates, you’re stuck with the data plan.
How to Cancel Auto-Renewal on Each Network
MTN
- Dial *312#
- Select 1 (Data Plans)
- Go to Manage Data
- Choose Cancel Auto-Renewal
Tip: You can also opt out by replying STOP to MTN’s subscription confirmation SMS.
Airtel
Use the same *312# code as MTN. Navigate to:
- Data Plans
- Manage Data
- Cancel Auto-Renewal
Some Airtel bundles don’t follow this route. If you’re stuck, try 141# > My Data Plans > Cancel Auto-Renew.
Glo
- Dial *312#
- Follow the steps to Data Plan > Manage > Cancel Auto-Renewal
- Or simply text C RDC to 1010 (for daily combo plans).
9Mobile (Etisalat)
This one’s trickier. Options include:
- Using the 9Mobile app
- Calling 200 (Customer Care)
- Visiting 9Mobile website
How to Check If Auto-Renewal Is Active
Before canceling, verify your status:
- MTN: *312# > Manage Data
- Airtel: *141# > My Data Plans
- Glo: Text “INFO” to 127
- 9Mobile: Call or check app
My Airtime Mistake
A few weeks ago, I loaded ₦1,500 to gift someone airtime. Minutes later, I received a message: “You’ve successfully subscribed to the Monthly 2GB Plan.” I forgot I had auto-renewal on. Lesson learned: always cancel it after you subscribe manually.
Conclusion
Auto-renewal sounds helpful—until it isn’t. Whether you’re switching sims, managing a tight budget, or just want more control over your data usage, canceling it can save you real money and stress.
If this helped, share it with a friend. Got stuck following the steps? Drop a comment or reach out—I respond fast. Kindly subscribe to my YouTube channel to support me.
