In the first six months of 2024, Nigeria witnessed significant activity in the mobile data and internet subscription sector. As digital transformation continues to advance, the consumption of mobile data has surged, reflecting broader trends in internet usage, economic activities, and social behaviors. This period saw substantial investments in mobile data infrastructure, regulatory adjustments, and consumer spending.
Data and Internet Subscription Growth
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) reported steady growth in internet subscriptions. Active internet subscriptions increased from 159.03 million in August 2023 to 160.17 million in September 2023, maintaining an upward trajectory into 2024 [❞]. This growth aligns with the country’s broader objectives to enhance digital inclusion and connectivity across urban and rural areas.
Data Consumption
Data consumption in Nigeria is driven by several factors, including the proliferation of smartphones, increased availability of affordable data plans, and the rise of digital content consumption. Platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram have significantly influenced data usage patterns:
- YouTube: In early 2024, YouTube had approximately 28.50 million users in Nigeria, equating to 27.7% of the total internet user base. This platform’s popularity is fueled by its vast array of content, from entertainment to educational videos.
- TikTok: With 23.84 million users aged 18 and above, TikTok’s short-form video content has become a major driver of data usage. The platform’s engaging format encourages frequent and prolonged use.
- Instagram: Instagram’s user base grew to 12.40 million in early 2024, reflecting its appeal for visual content and social interaction.
Financial Expenditure on Data
The cost of mobile data in Nigeria is relatively affordable compared to global standards. As of early 2024, the average cost per gigabyte was 39 U.S. cents. To estimate the total expenditure on mobile data, one must consider the user base and the average data consumption per user.
Average Data Usage
Based on global trends and localized data, average monthly data consumption per user in Nigeria is estimated to range between 2 to 5 GB. For illustrative purposes, assuming an average usage of 3 GB per month, the total data consumption for Nigeria’s internet user base (approximately 160 million users) can be estimated.
- Monthly Data Consumption: 160 million users x 3 GB = 480 million GB
- Monthly Expenditure on Data: 480 million GB x $0.39 = $187.2 million
- Six-Month Expenditure on Data: $187.2 million x 6 = $1.1232 billion
Therefore, Nigeria’s total expenditure on mobile data for the first half of 2024 is estimated to be around $1.1232 billion.
Regulatory and Infrastructure Developments
The NCC has continued to play a pivotal role in regulating and promoting the telecommunications sector. Efforts have been made to enhance broadband penetration and improve service quality. These initiatives include:
- Infrastructure Expansion: Investments in fiber optic networks and 4G/5G infrastructure to support higher data speeds and better coverage.
- Regulatory Adjustments: Updates to telecom regulations to foster competition and protect consumer interests.
Conclusion
The first half of 2024 has been marked by significant advancements in Nigeria’s mobile data landscape. With an increasing number of internet subscriptions and substantial consumer spending on data, the country is on a path toward greater digital integration. Continuous improvements in infrastructure and regulatory frameworks will be crucial in sustaining this growth and ensuring that all Nigerians benefit from the digital revolution.
