Nigeria’s data demand has reached unprecedented levels, with over 142.16 million active internet subscriptions, of which 141.66 million are mobile, according to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).

This surge is fuelled by widespread smartphone adoption, driving monthly data usage up by 93.35% in just two years, from 517,670.15 terabytes in January 2023 to 1,000,930.6 terabytes in January 2025.

Mobile subscriptions have climbed to 169 million, while rising broadband penetration has boosted the telecom industry’s contribution to the nation’s GDP to more than 14%, valued at roughly $10.8 billion.

Telecom giants MTN Nigeria and Airtel Nigeria both reported robust Q2 2025 results, with double-digit growth in data revenues despite inflationary pressures.

Over the past 17 months, data services have contributed an estimated N3 trillion to operators’ earnings, aided by increased consumption even after a 50% tariff adjustment.

MTN Nigeria alone posted Q2 revenue of N1.3 trillion and a pre-tax profit of N419.61 billion, alongside a net forex gain of N295 million, a remarkable recovery from the N1 trillion forex loss in the same period last year.

Why data appetite increased

Analysts credit these results to foreign exchange policy reforms, higher oil output, and other stabilisation measures.

MTN Nigeria’s Chief Financial Officer, Modupe Kadri, noted that shifting consumer habits are redefining telecom business strategies.

Speaking during a Channels Television interview, Kadri said:

“The average consumer would choose to buy data rather than buy food. Data is the new oil.”

Kadri also highlighted data's role in enabling business transactions, virtual meetings, and instant communication.

While voice traffic still grows in Nigeria, unlike in mature markets where it has declined sharply, operators are focusing on innovative service models to extend network reach and improve efficiency.