MTN Nigeria Reigns Supreme: 91.9 Million Subscribers Lead the Pack as Mobile Growth Hits 178.6 Million

Nigeria’s mobile subscriber growth is showing no signs of slowing down, with the total number of active mobile lines increasing by 1.2% month-on-month to 178.6 million in November 2025. This marks the fourth consecutive monthly growth, indicating a sustained upward trend. The sector has overcome challenges posed by regulatory interventions, such as linking SIM cards to National Identification Numbers (NIN), and is now experiencing renewed momentum.

The growth is broad-based, with all mobile network operators posting subscriber gains. Nigeria’s mobile subscriber growth is on fire, reaching 178.6 million, with MTN Nigeria maintaining its dominance, boasting 91.9 million subscribers and a 51.9% market share, while Airtel Nigeria follows closely with 59.8 million subscribers and a 33.8% market share, together controlling over 85% of the market. Globacom holds steady in third place with 22.2 million subscribers and a 12.5% market share, while T2 (formerly 9mobile) trails behind with 3.2 million subscribers and a 1.8% market share, highlighting the duopoly of MTN and Airtel in Nigeria’s telecom market

Internet connections have also followed the upward trajectory, rising by 1.2% month-on-month to 144.2 million. The telecommunications sector’s positive growth trajectory is expected to continue, driven by rising digital demand, improved regulatory alignment, and renewed industry ambition ¹ ² ³.

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced plans to leverage satellite technology to expand mobile coverage to underserved areas, targeting 23.3 million Nigerians without access to terrestrial networks. This initiative is expected to bridge the connectivity gap and support economic growth.

 .The growth in mobile subscriptions and internet connections is driving digital inclusion, with more Nigerians accessing online services, e-commerce, and digital financial services. This, in turn, is expected to boost economic growth, create jobs, and improve living standards. The telecom sector’s contribution to GDP is also increasing, with ICT accounting for 10.29% of nominal GDP in Q1 2025.

However, this growth also poses challenges for regulators. The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) must ensure that the sector remains competitive, innovative, and secure. This requires effective regulation, infrastructure development, and investment in emerging technologies like 5G and satellite communications.

The regulatory framework governing the telecom sector in Nigeria is evolving. The NCC has introduced measures to promote competition, protect consumers, and ensure quality of service. The regulator has also announced plans to leverage satellite technology to expand mobile coverage to underserved areas.

The growth in the telecom sector is expected to attract more investment, driving infrastructure development and innovation. The expansion of digital services, including e-commerce, digital financial services, and online education, will improve living standards and drive economic growth. However, the NCC must balance the need for regulation with the need to promote innovation and competition in the sector.

The increasing reliance on digital services also increases the risk of cyber attacks and data breaches, requiring robust cybersecurity measures. The sector requires significant investment in infrastructure, including fibre rollout, towers, and data centres, to support growing demand.

To unlock Nigeria’s digital potential, policymakers and regulators must prioritize infrastructure development, investing in infrastructure to support growing demand for digital services. A regulatory framework that promotes competition, innovation, and security is also crucial. Improving digital literacy will ensure that Nigerians can fully participate in the digital economy, and implementing robust cybersecurity measures will protect consumers and businesses.

By addressing these challenges and opportunities, Nigeria can unlock its digital potential and drive economic growth, innovation, and digital inclusion