Abuja, July 24, 2025 – Nigeria’s broadband internet connections continued their upward trajectory in May 2025, growing by 1% month-on-month (MoM) to reach 105.8 million, according to the latest data released by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). This comes in stark contrast to a decline in mobile subscriptions during the same period, underscoring a subtle but significant shift in the country’s connectivity dynamics.
The data reveals that, although mobile subscribers dropped, broadband subscriptions have been on a consistent rise since October 2024, reflecting increasing demand for faster, more reliable internet access. This sustained growth is largely driven by higher data consumption, digital transformation across sectors, and the gradual modernization of Nigeria’s internet infrastructure.
With the latest additions, Nigeria’s broadband penetration rate rose from 48.15% in April to 48.81% in May, inching closer to the Federal Government’s ambitious target of 70% broadband coverage by the end of 2025. However, the pace of growth indicates that hitting this target within the year remains a significant challenge.
Interestingly, data usage continues to soar despite a reduction in mobile subscribers. In May alone, Nigerians consumed over 1.04 million terabytes of data, representing a 6% MoM increase and the highest ever recorded. Analysts attribute this spike in usage to recent tariff adjustments, which may have prompted more deliberate consumption behavior and a preference for broadband over basic mobile internet.
The current expansion is being supported by key national initiatives and international investment. The National Broadband Alliance for Nigeria (NBAN) remains the cornerstone of the country’s broadband strategy. It aims to:
The strategy hinges on infrastructure sharing, policy reforms, and public-private partnerships.
One such move saw the NCC approve a network-sharing agreement between MTN Nigeria and 9mobile, allowing the latter to utilize MTN’s infrastructure in under-served areas. This could greatly enhance 9mobile’s reach and improve service delivery in regions where it previously had little to no presence.
In a further boost to the sector, local news outlets report that Nigeria has secured $3 billion in funding from the World Bank to finance the rollout of telecoms equipment and fibre optic infrastructure. The funding could fast-track deployment of high-speed broadband and 5G networks, particularly in rural and economically disadvantaged zones, bridging the digital divide.
While government policies and infrastructure investments are setting the stage for a more connected Nigeria, the current growth trajectory suggests that the 70% broadband target may not be met this year. The momentum is real — but the scale and speed of implementation may need further acceleration.
Still, the steady growth in broadband subscriptions and increased data usage signal a fundamental shift in how Nigerians connect, access services, and participate in the digital economy.
📌 Editor’s Note: For content partnerships and collaborations, reach out via [email protected]
Reporting by Peter Anene, Business Editor in Lagos, Nigeria.
