Nigeria’s Telecom Sector Shows Growth In Voice and Internet Subscriptions, Teledensity Drops

Nigeria has experienced a steady rise in active voice and internet subscriptions, alongside a decrease in teledensity, according to the latest telecommunications statistical indicators released by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). These figures have been adjusted to reflect the country’s latest population growth and align with international standards.

The adjustment, based on the Nigerian Population Commission’s projection of Nigeria’s population at 216,783,381 as of 2022, replaces the previous estimate of 190 million people. This has led to a drop in teledensity from 115.63 per cent to 102.30 per cent in September, with broadband penetration decreasing from 45.47 per cent to 40.85 per centin the same month. However, active voice subscriptions saw a slight increase from 220,715,961 to 221,769,883 in September 2023. Internet subscriptions also grew marginally, from 159,034,717 in August 2023 to 160,171,125 in September 2023.

In October 2023, there was a 0.19 per cent growth in active voice subscriptions, with teledensity at 102.49 per cent and internet subscriptions increasing by 0.60 per cent compared to September 2023. November 2023 saw a further 0.46 per cent growth in active voice subscriptions, teledensity at 102.97 per cent, and a 0.57 per cent increase in internet subscriptions compared to October 2023.

Teledensity is an index used by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) to measure telephone penetration, representing one line per 100 individuals in the population. The NCC’s adjustment is in line with Section 89 Subsection 3(d) of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003, which mandates the Commission to monitor and report on the state of the telecom industry, provide statistical analysis, and identify industry trends.

Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, emphasized the importance of maintaining data integrity in the Nigerian telecom industry. This ensures accurate measurement of progress towards increased broadband penetration, improved quality of service, and expanded population coverage, aligning with the goals of the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy. The data also provides valuable information for international bodies, investors, and the public.