A recent report released by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has unveiled a significant surge in data consumption by Nigerians, with usage soaring to a staggering 753,388.77 terabytes in March 2024. This marks a notable increase from the 562,960.57 terabytes recorded in March 2023, reflecting the growing reliance on digital connectivity across the country.
The breakdown of the NCC report highlights robust data usage trends, with telecom subscribers consuming 721,522 and 698,804.54 terabytes in January and February 2024, respectively. Notably, market dominance among telecommunication companies in March 2024 saw MTN securing the largest share, accounting for 81,799,666 terabytes, equivalent to 37.4% of the market. Following closely is Airtel with 63,357,061 terabytes (28.9%), trailed by Globacom with 62,191,448 terabytes (28.4%), while 9mobile held 11,657 terabytes (5.3%).
The report also sheds light on subscriber demographics, revealing that GSM subscribers surged to 163,895,185 in March 2024, with Fixed Wire users totaling 21,092, ISP (wired/wireless) subscribers standing at 213,876, and VoIP users reaching 238,139, summing up to 164,368,292 subscribers. A comparison with March 2023 figures indicates notable growth, with GSM subscribers rising from 156,989,223, Fixed Wire from 16,457, ISP (wired/wireless) from 204,810, and VoIP from 340,614.
Furthermore, broadband penetration witnessed an increase to 43.53% in March 2024, up from the previous month’s figures, with subscription numbers reaching 94,364,751. However, when contrasted with March 2023 records, where penetration stood at 48% and subscription at 92,033,267, a slight decrease is observed.
The NCC report underscores the evolving landscape of digital connectivity in Nigeria, with data consumption patterns reflecting the country’s growing digital economy. As internet usage continues to expand, telecom operators are expected to leverage these insights to enhance network infrastructure and services, ensuring seamless connectivity for all Nigerians.
