Nigeria’s 5G Subscriptions Skyrocket, Breaching the 500,000 Mark – Nigeria’s journey into the future of telecommunications has taken a significant leap, with 5G subscriptions soaring to an impressive half a million, as announced by the Executive Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Prof. Umar Danbatta.
The Rapid Ascent of 5G
While addressing an audience in Kano, Prof. Danbatta highlighted the substantial progress the telecommunications industry has made in recent years. Just a few months prior, in July, he had pointed out that 5G subscriptions stood at a little over 60,000. This swift rise signals the country’s readiness to adopt newer, faster technologies and indicates a promising trajectory for further growth.
A Boost in Broadband Penetration
The country isn’t just witnessing growth in 5G subscriptions. Broadband penetration has seen a considerable uptick, reaching 47.01% by July 2023. Prof. Danbatta is optimistic about the future, setting ambitious targets of achieving 50% broadband penetration by the end of 2023 and an impressive 70% by the close of 2025.
Telecoms: A Growing Contributor to Nigeria’s Economy
In an era defined by digital connectivity, Nigeria’s telecommunications sector has become a vital contributor to the nation’s GDP. Prof. Danbatta noted, “From an 8% contribution to the Gross Domestic Product in 2015, the telecommunications sector now contributes a whopping 16% quarterly to the Nigerian economy as of the second quarter of 2023.”
Furthermore, the entrance of more players into Nigeria’s telecommunications arena has led to a surge in investment. “From $38bn in 2015, the investment profile in the sector has nearly doubled, standing at $75bn currently. The sales from the 5G C-Band Spectrum alone have generated a remarkable $847.8m for the Federal Government,” he added.
Seeking Partnerships for Enhanced Connectivity
The Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, reiterated the country’s commitment to strengthening its digital infrastructure. Emphasizing the importance of connectivity as a driving force for progress, Tijani revealed that Nigeria is actively seeking partnerships to enhance telecommunication connectivity, particularly in regions that remain unserved or underserved.
Nigeria’s embrace of 5G and the surge in broadband penetration reflect a nation ready to harness the power of the digital age. As the country continues its journey, forging strategic partnerships and focusing on inclusive growth, it is set to establish itself as a major player in the global telecommunications landscape.