In a groundbreaking development, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has reported a record-breaking data consumption of 721,522 terabytes in a single month, surpassing the previous record set in December 2023. This surge in data usage is indicative of the growing reliance on digital connectivity in Nigeria.
The NCC’s data also revealed a significant increase in active Internet subscriptions, totaling 161,977,883. This growth is attributed to various service providers, including mobile operators, Internet Service Providers (ISPs), Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), and fixed-line connections. Mobile subscriptions accounted for the majority, with ISPs and VoIP services also contributing to the overall numbers.
Despite a slight decline in Internet users compared to the previous month, Nigeria’s Internet penetration remains strong at 42.53%. Broadband subscriptions have also seen a steady increase, reaching 92,195,937 million. The shift towards high-speed connectivity is evident in the rising proportion of 4G subscriptions, which now account for a significant portion of the market share.
Interestingly, 5G subscriptions are also on the rise, albeit at a slower pace compared to other network generations. The International Telecommunications Union (ITU) recently highlighted Africa’s low 5G coverage rate, with only 6% of the continent having access to this advanced technology. This disparity is attributed to the continued reliance on older mobile technologies like 2G and 3G networks, which remain prevalent in many African countries.
In Nigeria, as in other African nations, 2G and 3G networks play a crucial role in providing essential mobile services, especially in underserved regions. The cost-effectiveness of these legacy technologies makes them indispensable in countries with lower-income economies. The ITU’s report underscores the importance of balancing technological advancements with the need to ensure universal access to mobile services.
As Nigeria continues to embrace digital transformation, the NCC’s latest data highlights the country’s evolving connectivity landscape. With a growing emphasis on high-speed Internet and emerging technologies like 5G, Nigeria is poised to lead the charge towards a more connected and inclusive future.
