Data Demand Drives Growth As Telcos Expand Networks Nationwide
Nigeria’s Telecom Sector Maintains Growth Momentum
NIGERIA’S telecommunications industry continued its upward trajectory in March 2026, with active mobile subscriptions rising to 185.7 million as network operators intensified investments in infrastructure and digital connectivity. Industry analysts say the sustained growth reflects increasing consumer demand for voice and data services, alongside continuous efforts by operators to improve network quality and coverage across the country.
According to industry statistics released by the Nigerian Communications Commission, active mobile lines increased by approximately 1.1 million during the month, extending a growth trend that has remained steady since the second half of 2025. The figures underscore the resilience of Nigeria’s telecommunications market despite broader economic challenges.
Internet Usage Continues to Expand
The rise in mobile subscriptions was accompanied by growing internet adoption across the country. Active GSM internet subscriptions climbed to 153.2 million, while total internet subscriptions across all service providers increased to 153.8 million.
Industry stakeholders attribute the increase to the growing dependence on digital platforms for commerce, education, financial services, entertainment and communication. The continued expansion of mobile banking, e-commerce platforms, streaming services and remote work arrangements has significantly increased demand for reliable broadband connectivity.
Analysts note that internet connectivity is becoming an essential utility for millions of Nigerians, driving operators to invest more aggressively in network expansion and capacity upgrades.
MTN and Airtel Strengthen Market Leadership
Market data showed that MTN Nigeria retained its position as the industry leader with about 95.8 million subscribers, representing more than half of the country’s mobile market.
Meanwhile, Airtel Nigeria emerged as the strongest monthly performer, adding roughly 600,000 new subscribers and growing its customer base to 63.6 million. The increase further consolidated Airtel’s position as the second-largest telecom operator in the country.
Together, the two operators account for nearly 86 per cent of Nigeria’s mobile subscriptions, reflecting their extensive network infrastructure, broader geographical reach and sustained capital investments in service improvement.
Smaller Operators Seek Greater Market Share
While the industry’s two largest operators continued to dominate subscriber acquisition, other players recorded more modest gains.
Globacom expanded its customer base to approximately 22.6 million subscribers, while T2 Mobile continued its gradual recovery, growing its subscriber base to about 3.5 million users.
Industry observers believe competition among operators is increasingly shifting from basic subscriber acquisition to service quality, network reliability and data offerings as the market approaches maturity.
Digital Economy Fuels Future Growth
Experts project that Nigeria’s telecommunications industry will remain one of the strongest drivers of the country’s digital economy.
Growing smartphone penetration, increasing digital literacy and rising demand for cloud services, fintech solutions and online content are expected to sustain subscriber growth in the coming years. Operators are also expected to intensify investments in broadband infrastructure, network modernization and rural connectivity initiatives.
As digital transformation accelerates across both public and private sectors, telecommunications infrastructure is expected to play an increasingly strategic role in supporting economic growth, innovation and national development.
