Nigeria’s 5G connections reached four million by December 2024, making up 2.46% of total subscriptions. Despite the increase, high device costs and economic challenges have hindered growth. Meanwhile, 4G became the leading technology in 2024 with 47.20% of connections, as 2G usage declined to 41.59%.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) reported a significant increase in 5G connections, reaching four million by December 2024. This figure represents 2.46% of the nation’s total 164.6 million telephone service subscriptions. Major telecom operators MTN, Airtel, and Mafab Communications have initiated the rollout of 5G services across Nigeria.
Despite advancements, the high costs associated with 5G devices and inflated operational expenses due to rising inflation and currency devaluation have hindered subscription growth. Though 5G technology is superior in providing service quality compared to earlier generations, these financial pressures have slowed broader adoption.
As 2024 progressed, 4G technologies gained traction and began to dominate the market with 47.20% of total connections, while 2G usage decreased to 41.59%. In December 2023, 2G had previously accounted for 57.84% of all connections, indicating a shift in consumer preference toward more advanced telecom infrastructure.
Looking forward, the NCC anticipates continued growth in both 4G and 5G services as the telecommunications sector evolves, although challenges remain related to pricing and investment in newer technologies. Operators are exploring strategies to enhance service uptake amid these challenges.
In Nigeria, the landscape of telecommunications is evolving rapidly with the introduction of 5G technology. The NCC, responsible for regulating the sector, has provided insights into the current state of connections and the competitive environment driven by major mobile network operators. This context is essential to understanding the dynamics of subscription growth and the hurdles faced by both operators and consumers in adopting new technologies. The adoption of 5G, considered a leap forward, promises superior speeds and connectivity but is currently met with economic challenges that affect users’ ability to purchase compatible devices and services. This backdrop sets the stage for analyzing the telecommunications evolution in Nigeria and its implications for future connectivity. Additionally, the impact of inflation and currency devaluation highlights the broader economic conditions that shape the feasibility of technological advancements in consumer markets.
In summary, Nigeria’s telecommunications sector is witnessing a notable increase in 5G connections, now totaling four million. However, challenges such as high device costs, inflation, and currency devaluation significantly impact subscription rates. While 4G has emerged as the dominant technology over 2G, the path to wider 5G adoption remains complex, requiring strategic investments and improved economic conditions to enhance consumer access to advanced telecom services.
Original Source: economicconfidential.com
