Lagos, Nigeria – The number of 5G connections in Nigeria reached 4 million by December 2024, according to new data from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). Despite this growth, 5G adoption still represents only 2.46% of the country’s total active telephone subscriptions, which stood at 164.6 million at the end of the year.
Currently, three mobile network operators—MTN, Airtel, and Mafab Communications—have deployed 5G services in the country. However, adoption has been slow due to high device costs and economic challenges affecting telecom operators’ investments.
4G Overtakes 2G as Leading Technology
The NCC report highlighted a major shift in Nigeria’s telecom landscape, with 4G emerging as the dominant mobile technology in 2024. By the end of the year, 4G accounted for 47.20% of total mobile connections, surpassing 2G, which dropped to 41.59%.
This marks a significant change from December 2023, when 2G led the market with 57.84% of total connections. Meanwhile, 3G, which has been in Nigeria since 2007, maintained a share of 8.75%.
Challenges Slowing 5G Expansion
Although 5G has been deployed across major Nigerian cities, including Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt, its adoption remains sluggish due to the high cost of 5G-compatible devices. Inflation and currency devaluation have further impacted affordability, making it difficult for many Nigerians to upgrade.
Mohammed Rufai, the former Chief Technical Officer of MTN Nigeria, noted that device limitations are a major reason why telecom operators continue to support 2G and 3G networks while investing in 4G and 5G.
“As you are aware, devices have to be compatible with 5G for them to be used. We have many subscribers in Nigeria who have 2G and 3G devices, and we will continue to cater to the needs of those subscribers,” he said in an interview with newsmen.
Nigeria’s 5G adoption challenges reflect a broader trend across Africa, where 5G coverage remains the lowest globally, standing at just 6% as of December 2023, according to the International Telecommunications Union (ITU).
Operators’ 5G Rollout Progress
MTN became the first operator to launch 5G in Nigeria in September 2022, initially rolling out in seven cities, including Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Ibadan, Kano, Owerri, and Maiduguri. The company has since expanded coverage.
Airtel followed in June 2023, launching its 5G service in Lagos, Abuja, Rivers, and Ogun, with plans to extend to six more states within the first year.
Mafab Communications, which secured its 5G license alongside MTN, experienced delays in rolling out its service but eventually launched in Abuja in late 2023. The company has committed to expanding to six cities in the first phase of its rollout.
Despite the slow adoption of 5G, telecom operators remain committed to expanding their networks. However, addressing the high cost of 5G devices and improving economic conditions will be crucial for driving mass adoption in the coming years.
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