These days, life without a network provider is almost impossible. Whether it’s for calls, browsing, banking, or chatting, we all need a strong and reliable network. The good part is that we have different options to choose from. MTN, Airtel, Glo, 9mobile, and even Vodacom are some of the popular names. Each one has its strengths and weaknesses. But the truth is, your experience depends on where you stay and what you use the network for.
For me, I use both MTN and Airtel. I didn’t plan to use two SIMs at first, but network problems made me do it. I started with MTN because it was everywhere. Most people I knew were using MTN. It was easy to call anyone and enjoy bonus airtime and data. Their customer service was okay, and their recharge process was fast. But after a while, I noticed something. The network in my area started to misbehave. Sometimes, my calls would not connect. At other times, browsing was slow like a snail. It was very frustrating.
That was when I decided to try Airtel. A friend of mine kept saying Airtel was faster, especially for browsing. I didn’t believe her at first, but I gave it a try. To my surprise, Airtel worked better in my area. My YouTube videos loaded faster, and my WhatsApp calls were clearer. It felt like a relief. Since then, I’ve been using both MTN and Airtel. I switch between them depending on which one is stronger at that moment. But no matter how many SIMs you have, the network can still disgrace you.
One of the worst experiences I’ve had with a poor network happened during a Zoom meeting in my previous workplace. I was supposed to present a report to my boss who lived outside the country and I didn’t want to disappoint so I prepared for days. I bought data on my MTN line and even made sure my phone was fully charged. Just five minutes into the meeting, the network started acting up. My video was freezing, and my voice was breaking. Then, I got disconnected. I felt so embarrassed.
I had to call one of my colleagues to explain, but the meeting had already continued without me. It was painful. Since that day, I no longer trust only one network. I always make sure both MTN and Airtel have data. If one fails, the other might save me.
I remember when I traveled to my aunt’s place in the village. I carried my MTN SIM proudly, thinking it would work. I was shocked to see zero network bars. I couldn’t make calls or browse. I had to borrow my cousin’s Airtel line to contact home. That experience taught me that not all networks work in every location. Sometimes, your favorite network is useless once you leave your usual environment.
Choosing a network provider is not just about what you like. It’s about what works for you where you are. Some people love Glo, others prefer 9mobile. As long as the network is strong and does the job, that’s what matters.
This is my response to this episode of #smp weekly prompt
