Nigeria Hits 200m Active Telecom Lines
5G connections now make up over 5% of total subscriptions, as internet usage grows to 160.9 million
Nigeria's active telecom lines have reached a milestone of 200.3 million, with 5G connections crossing the 5% mark, according to the latest data from the Nigerian Communications Commission.
The number of active lines increased by 2.9 million, from 197.4 million in August to 200.3 million in September. This growth is reflected in the teledensity, which rose to 92.41% from 91.07% in the same period.
Internet subscriptions also saw an increase, rising to 160.9 million from 158.5 million in August. Broadband subscriptions grew to 128 million in September, up from 126.2 million the previous month. However, total internet data usage declined to 1.73 million terabytes in September, down from 1.76 million terabytes in August.
The telecommunications industry's contribution to Nigeria's GDP rose to 9.72% in the second quarter of 2026, up from 9.19% in the first quarter. This increase highlights the significant role the industry plays in the country's economy.
## Why it matters The growth in active telecom lines and internet subscriptions is a significant indicator of the increasing importance of telecommunications in Nigeria. As the industry continues to expand, it is likely to have a positive impact on the country's economy and development. The rise of 5G connections, in particular, could lead to improved internet speeds and greater access to online services, which could have a range of benefits for individuals and businesses.
The decline in total internet data usage, however, may be a cause for concern, and it will be important to monitor this trend in the coming months. Overall, the latest data from the Nigerian Communications Commission suggests that the telecommunications industry in Nigeria is continuing to grow and evolve, with significant implications for the country's economy and development.
