Nigeria’s Telecom Subscriptions Rise to 175.3m as Broadband Penetration Hits 49.89%, Says NCC

Nigeria’s telecommunications sector sustained its growth momentum in the last quarter, with active mobile subscriptions rising to 175,322,398 in October, according to the latest industry statistics released by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).

The data also showed that teledensity, a measure of access to telephone services increased to 80.87 per cent in October, reflecting broader mobile access and continued adoption of telecom services across the country.

Figures released by the NCC indicate a steady upward trend over the three-month period.

In September, active subscriptions stood at 173,541,983 with teledensity at 80.05 per cent, while August recorded 171,566,422 subscriptions and a teledensity of 79.14 per cent.

Broadband penetration also recorded gradual improvement during the period under review. In October, broadband penetration rose to 49.89 per cent, compared to 49.34 per cent in September and 48.81 per cent in August, signalling incremental progress in access to high-speed internet nationwide.

Industry analysts attributed the month-on-month growth to sustained demand for mobile voice and data services, as well as gradual improvements in network coverage and capacity.

However, they noted that the sector continues to grapple with challenges such as infrastructure deficits, high operating costs, multiple taxation and unreliable power supply.

A breakdown of active subscriptions by operators showed that MTN Nigeria maintained its market leadership in October with 91,077,821 active lines, representing 52.02 per cent of the total market share.

Airtel Nigeria followed with 59,039,563 subscribers, accounting for 33.72 per cent, while Globacom recorded 21,833,946 active subscriptions, representing 12.47 per cent of the market.

9mobile, now operating as T2, had 3,131,570 active subscriptions, giving it a market share of 1.79 per cent.

Despite the positive indicators, stakeholders have continued to call for accelerated broadband rollout, improved quality of service and deeper penetration into underserved and rural communities.

Analysts stressed that while rising teledensity reflects wider access to telecom services, achieving Nigeria’s digital economy goals will depend on faster broadband expansion and sustained investment in network infrastructure.