- Leading States: Lagos and Ogun States are driving Nigeria’s digital growth, with Lagos having 18.84 million active internet subscribers and Ogun 9.53 million, according to the NBS Q1 2024 report.
- Infrastructure and Goals: Lagos has completed 2,700 kilometers of fiber optic infrastructure and plans to add 3,300 kilometers by 2027, aiming for a total of 6,000 kilometers, though comprehensive coverage requires 36,000 kilometers.
- Market Trends: Internet subscriptions increased by 4.33% to 164 million, while voice subscribers decreased by 3% to 219 million. MTN leads the market with 81.8 million voice and 69.4 million internet users.
Lagos and Ogun States are at the forefront of Nigeria’s digital expansion, as reported by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).
According to the NBS Telecoms Data report for Q1 2024, released on Monday, Lagos State leads with 18.84 million active internet subscribers, followed closely by Ogun State with 9.53 million. The report also revealed regional disparities in internet adoption, with Kano State recording 9.07 million users.
Lagos has made significant strides in enhancing digital connectivity, completing 2,700 kilometers of fiber optic infrastructure. Tumbosun Alake, the state’s IT chief, noted that this is part of a broader strategy to encourage telecom operators to expand broadband services to underserved areas. By 2027, Lagos aims to add another 3,300 kilometers of fiber, bringing the total to 6,000 kilometers. However, comprehensive coverage requires a network of 36,000 kilometers, necessitating private-sector collaboration.
The report also indicated a 4.33% increase in internet subscriptions to 164 million, while voice subscribers declined by 3% to 219 million. In Q1 2024, there were 219.3 million active voice subscribers, down from 226.2 million in Q1 2023, reflecting a -3.03% growth rate.
Lagos State led in both categories, with 25.96 million active voice subscribers and 18.84 million active internet subscribers. MTN maintained its market dominance in Q1 2024, with 81.8 million voice subscribers and 69.4 million internet users. Globacom followed with 62.2 million voice and 44.4 million internet users. Airtel came in third with 63.4 million voice and 46.8 million internet users, while 9mobile had 11.7 million voice and 3.3 million internet users.
Meanwhile, MTN Nigeria announced on Saturday the construction of the largest data center in West Africa, featuring a 1,500-rack and Tier 4 data center. Mohammed Rufai, MTN’s Chief Technical Officer, stated that this expansion aims to meet growing data demand and prepare for future growth.
