By DAYO ADESULU
Broadband Penetration in Nigeria Falls Short of 2025 National Target
The Nigeria internet penetration 2025 outlook reveals a modest improvement in broadband access. According to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), internet penetration reached 48.15% in April 2025, rising slightly from 47.73% in March. However, this gain remains insufficient for meeting the National Broadband Plan (NBP 2020–2025), which set a target of 70% broadband penetration in Nigeria by the end of the year.
Stakeholders have voiced concern that the current growth rate is too slow. They warn that Nigeria is unlikely to meet the 70% broadband penetration goal, unless major obstacles are addressed urgently.
Rising Internet Costs and Economic Strain Reduce Data Consumption
While internet access is expanding slowly, data consumption is shrinking, signaling a deeper issue within Nigeria’s digital ecosystem. The NCC reported that data usage dropped to 983,283.43 terabytes in April, falling from 995,876.10 terabytes recorded in March. This decline followed a steeper plunge earlier in the year, when usage crashed from 1 million terabytes in January to 893,054.80 terabytes in February.
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This troubling trend correlates with sharp data tariff increases and mounting economic pressures. As the cost of internet access continues to rise, many users are cutting back on data consumption, despite an increasing dependence on digital services.
Subscriptions Waver as Internet Sector Struggles
Although March showed some promise, with data subscriptions recovering to 142.05 million users, April saw a decline. Subscriber numbers dipped slightly to 141.99 million. This dip, though marginal, points to the fragile state of the sector.
Industry experts warn that affordability remains a key concern. If left unaddressed, it could threaten Nigeria’s broader digital transformation agenda. The current pace is not only insufficient for meeting national targets, but it also raises questions about the sustainability of growth in the broadband penetration in Nigeria.
Infrastructure and Right-of-Way Challenges Hinder Progress
Several structural issues continue to plague Nigeria’s telecommunications industry. One of the most persistent is the high cost of deploying infrastructure, compounded by bureaucratic delays in securing right-of-way approvals. Only a handful of states have waived these charges, leaving most providers to navigate a costly and slow process.
This lack of cooperation between state governments and operators is slowing network expansion. Without effective policy reforms, these obstacles will continue to hold back progress in Nigeria internet penetration 2025 efforts.
Strong Digital Demand Undermined by Affordability Issues
Despite economic hurdles, Nigerians maintain a strong appetite for digital connectivity. The internet remains vital for education, e-commerce, remote work, and social interaction. However, rising costs threaten to limit access to these benefits.
At 48.15%, broadband penetration in Nigeria still falls short of reaching half the population. This gap highlights a digital divide that could widen unless broadband services become more affordable. Industry analysts emphasize that policy interventions and cost reforms are essential to avoid stalling digital growth.
Subscriber Porting Surges Amid Market Competition
Another telling development is the surge in subscriber porting activity, reflecting dissatisfaction and a search for better value. In April, 6,789 subscribers switched networks, representing a 121% increase from the 3,064 users who ported in March.
MTN Nigeria led the competition with a gain of 3,960 subscribers, followed by Airtel with 1,860 and Globacom with 966. In stark contrast, 9mobile added just three new subscribers, underscoring intense competition in a price-sensitive market.
Such shifts indicate that customers are seeking more competitive pricing and improved service quality. Operators who can address both will likely gain more traction in the evolving landscape.
Specialized Data Services Show Limited Uptake
The NCC also disclosed that 208,482 active data service users were recorded across licensed service providers. This figure likely includes a niche segment of enterprise users or premium customers who continue to rely heavily on digital tools despite the rising costs.
This trend suggests that business and professional users remain engaged, while casual users may be scaling back due to affordability concerns.
Conclusion: Bridging the Gap in Nigeria’s Digital Growth
The latest statistics on Nigeria internet penetration 2025 highlight both progress and setbacks. While the country inches closer to the 50% mark, the broader target of 70% broadband penetration by year-end appears increasingly out of reach.
The government and industry stakeholders must take immediate steps to lower internet costs, expand infrastructure, and streamline policy bottlenecks. Failing to act risks undermining Nigeria’s digital economy, limiting opportunities for innovation, education, and economic inclusion.
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