Nigeria’s internet usage reached a record 1.24 million terabytes in November 2025, according to the latest data from the Nigerian Communications Commission. The figure, up modestly from 1.235 million terabytes in October, reflects steady growth in digital activity across the country.
Analysts say the surge is due to broader mobile and broadband adoption and the growing appetite for streaming, online learning, and other digital services. The figures suggest that internet connectivity is no longer a luxury but a necessity for both business and leisure, underscoring the slow but steady expansion of Nigeria’s digital economy.
Broadband penetration in Nigeria crossed the halfway mark in November 2025, reaching 50.58 per cent, up from 45.61 per cent in January, the telecoms regulator reported. The figure, however, falls short of the 70 per cent coverage target outlined in the National Broadband Plan 2020–2025, which expires this month.
The country had roughly 109 million broadband subscriptions by November. Growth has been uneven, hindered by infrastructure and regulatory constraints, including frequent fibre-optic vandalism that triggers 30 to 43 network cuts daily, high right-of-way fees, and declining subscriber numbers earlier in the year.
Expansion of mobile networks, particularly 3G and 4G services, alongside limited 5G rollouts in urban centres, affordable smartphones, and competitive data plans, has driven uptake. Investments in the National Communications Backbone and private-sector initiatives have also improved access, especially in underserved areas.
While Nigeria is gradually improving digital inclusion, achieving the original broadband plan remains challenging due to high infrastructure costs, coverage limitations, and deployment hurdles. The NCC maintains that continued investment in mobile networks and broadband infrastructure will sustain gradual growth in the sector.
Read the full article here
