5G Subscriptions Hit 2.7m in Nigeria –NCC

Nigeria’s mobile network landscape is seeing a gradual shift towards newer technologies, with 5G subscriptions reaching 2.7 million in March 2024, according to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).

This translates to a 1.24 per cent penetration rate.

While this represents steady growth compared to December 2023 (1.04%), 2G remains the dominant network choice, accounting for over half (56.97%) of all connections. 3G holds a 9.04% share, while 4G subscriptions have grown significantly from 25.06% in May 2023 to 32.74% in March 2024.

The high cost of 5G-compatible smartphones is a major barrier to wider adoption. Although all three major operators – MTN, Airtel, and Mafab Communications – offer 5G services in select cities, expanding coverage and affordability remain key challenges.

MTN launched the first 5G network in September 2022, followed by Airtel in June 2023. Mafab entered the market later in 2023. All three companies are aiming to expand their reach, but the high cost of 5G devices is a significant deterrent for many Nigerians.

According to Mohammed Rufai, chief technical officer, MTN, maintaining older networks (2G and 3G) alongside newer ones is necessary due to device compatibility issues.

This highlights the need for a wider range of affordable 5G-compatible phones to truly unlock the potential of this next-generation technology in Nigeria.