MTN Nigeria has emerged as the leader in 5G internet speeds in the West and Central African (WCA) region, according to Ookla Speedtest Intelligence data for Q2 2024. The telco recorded download speeds of 95.62 Mbps and upload speeds of 17.01 Mbps, the fastest in the region.
This milestone underscores MTN Nigeria’s commitment to providing high-speed internet to its growing 5G subscriber base, which stands at 2.6 million—about 79% of the country’s 5G users.
Significant Investments in 5G Infrastructure
Since launching its 5G network in September 2022, MTN Nigeria has invested over $120 million to expand coverage. Within a year, the telco deployed more than 2,100 5G sites, reaching 11% of the Nigerian population by 2023. Initially launched in seven major cities, including Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt, MTN’s 5G network now serves a larger footprint across the country.
Dominating Regional and National Markets
MTN Nigeria’s achievements extend beyond its domestic market. The telco outpaces its regional counterparts in the MTN Group, including subsidiaries in Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Benin, and Cameroon. It also surpasses local competitors like Airtel, which leads 4G networks with median speeds of 30.35 Mbps for downloads and 10.28 Mbps for uploads as of 2022.
With a 50% share of Nigeria’s telecom market and the largest 5G subscriber base, MTN Nigeria is cementing its leadership in the country’s telecommunications sector.
5G Penetration Surges in Nigeria
According to Ookla Speedtest Intelligence, 5G penetration in Nigeria rose from 17.2% in Q1 2023 to 35.7% in Q2 2024, overtaking South Africa’s 31.6%. This growth aligns with a broader trend of increasing 5G adoption in Africa, driven by MTN and Airtel’s commercial launches.
However, despite Nigeria’s significant 5G growth, 5G users represent only 2.19% of the country’s 154.9 million active mobile subscribers as of September 2024, according to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).
Future Plans and Market Challenges
MTN Nigeria plans to expand its 5G network further, replicating its success in Côte d’Ivoire and other markets under its footprint. As the leading provider of 5G services in Nigeria, MTN is focused on increasing coverage while investing in 4G infrastructure to ensure comprehensive connectivity.
Meanwhile, competition remains subdued as Mafab Communications, which acquired a 5G license in 2021, has yet to roll out its services. This delay leaves MTN Nigeria in a prime position to solidify its dominance in the early stages of 5G adoption.
The Road Ahead
MTN Nigeria’s leadership in 5G speeds and coverage demonstrates the transformative potential of strategic investments in next-generation technology. With growing penetration and increasing subscriber demand, MTN is poised to play a pivotal role in advancing Nigeria’s digital economy and connectivity.