Nigeria’s mobile base climbs to 175.3m as broadband edges toward 50%

Nigeria’s telecommunications industry has maintained a strong growth trajectory through the third quarter of the year, with active mobile subscriptions reaching a new high of 175,322,398 in October.

According to the latest industry data released by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the surge in connectivity has pushed the nation’s teledensity to 80.87 per cent. This performance marks a steady upward trend from August, which recorded 171,566,422 subscriptions (79.14 per cent teledensity), and September, which saw 173,541,983 active lines (80.05 per cent teledensity).

The report also highlighted significant strides in high-speed connectivity. Broadband penetration rose to 49.89 per cent in October, nearing the halfway milestone for the population. This is an improvement from 48.81 per cent in August and 49.34 per cent in September, signaling gradual progress in access to high-speed internet nationwide.

A competitive analysis of the market in October reveals that MTN Nigeria continues to dominate the landscape. With 91,077,821 active lines, the provider holds a 52.02 per cent market share. Airtel Nigeria follows in second place with 59,039,563 subscribers (33.72 per cent), while Globacom maintains 21,833,946 subscriptions, representing 12.47 per cent of the market. 9mobile (T2) accounts for the remaining 1.79 per cent of the market with 3,131,570 active subscriptions.

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Industry analysts have noted that the month-on-month growth is driven by a sustained demand for mobile voice and data services, alongside incremental improvements in network coverage and capacity. However, they pointed out that these gains are achieved despite persistent challenges such as infrastructure gaps, high operating costs and unreliable power supply.

While the rising teledensity figures point to broader access, analysts added that the steady growth in subscriptions underscores the critical role of the telecoms sector in driving digital inclusion, economic activity and nationwide connectivity. They continue to call for accelerated expansion into underserved and rural communities to ensure the benefits of the digital economy reach all Nigerians.

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