Globacom recorded the highest growth in internet subscribers among Nigeria’s major telecommunications operators in May, adding about 1.2 million users as the country’s total internet subscriber base increased by 2.67 million. According to the latest figures from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Nigeria’s internet subscribers rose from 154.3 million in April to about 157 million in May. Globacom’s subscriber base grew from 15.5 million to 16.8 million during the period.
Airtel Nigeria posted the second highest increase, adding about 1.07 million subscribers to reach 55.8 million, while MTN Nigeria gained 382,894 subscribers, raising its total to about 83.5 million. Meanwhile, T2 Mobile, formerly 9mobile, recorded no growth for the second consecutive month, with its internet subscriber base remaining at 802,534 despite its national roaming agreement with MTN Nigeria.
Telecommunications industry expert Osita Odafi attributed Globacom’s strong performance partly to the operator’s promotional campaigns and improvements in network quality. He noted that some inactive subscribers may have resumed using data services because of attractive offers and better network performance. Globacom has also introduced customer incentive programmes, including welcome back offers for inactive users, smartphone promotions and eSIM data benefits.
Despite the latest gains by competitors, MTN remained Nigeria’s largest internet service provider with about 83.5 million subscribers, followed by Airtel with 55.8 million, while Globacom ranked third with 16.8 million subscribers. The latest NCC figures indicate growing competition among operators as they seek to expand their share of Nigeria’s fast growing internet market.