ABUJA, Nigeria — The number of mobile internet subscribers in Nigeria increased by 9.1 percent between April 2025 and April 2026, rising from 141.47 million to 154.35 million, according to the latest industry data from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) obtained by TheCableIndex.
This represents a net addition of 12.88 million new mobile internet users over the 12-month period, underscoring the continued expansion of digital connectivity across the country despite economic headwinds.
The data reveals a dynamic monthly pattern. Subscriptions dipped from 141.47 million in April 2025 to 138.22 million in July 2025, a decline of 3.25 million subscribers over three months, a period that coincided with the implementation of the NIN-SIM linkage policy which led to the disconnection of millions of lines not properly linked to National Identification Numbers.
However, from August 2025, subscriptions began a steady recovery, climbing to 139.79 million, then 140.36 million in September, and crossing the 142 million mark in October. The momentum accelerated in the final quarter of 2025, with subscriptions reaching 147.52 million in December. The upward trajectory continued into 2026, with figures rising to 150.91 million in January, 152.48 million in February, 153.15 million in March, and peaking at 154.35 million in April 2026.
The 9.1 percent year-on-year growth reflects the resilience of Nigeria’s telecommunications sector and the increasing reliance on mobile internet for communication, commerce, education, and entertainment. The data suggests that despite the initial disruption caused by the NIN-SIM verification exercise, the market has not only recovered but has expanded significantly.
Industry analysts attribute the growth to several factors, including the expansion of 4G and 5G networks by telecommunications operators, the increasing affordability of smartphones, and the growing digitalisation of services across sectors such as banking, education, and government. The data also points to the critical role of mobile internet in driving financial inclusion, with mobile money and digital banking services relying heavily on internet connectivity.
The NCC has continued to implement policies aimed at deepening broadband penetration in Nigeria, including the National Broadband Plan 2020-2025, which targets 70 percent broadband penetration by 2025. The sustained growth in mobile internet subscriptions indicates that the country is making progress toward this goal, though challenges such as infrastructure deficits, high data costs, and energy constraints remain.
The data also highlights the importance of mobile internet as a driver of economic growth and social development. As more Nigerians gain access to the internet, opportunities for e-commerce, remote work, digital learning, and access to information continue to expand.
For now, the 154.35 million mobile internet subscribers represent a significant milestone for Nigeria’s digital economy. However, as the country looks ahead, the focus will be on ensuring that this growth translates into meaningful improvements in connectivity, affordability, and digital inclusion for all citizens.
