GSMA: 5G and Fibre Could Connect 140 Million Nigerians

The Global System for Mobile Communications Association (GSMA) stated that the expansion of 5G networks and fibre infrastructure could potentially connect 140 million Nigerians who are within mobile broadband coverage but not using mobile internet services as of 2025. The GSMA’s State of Mobile Internet Connectivity 2026 report indicates that the issue is not just about extending network coverage but also about enabling users in covered areas to access and utilize mobile internet.

Barriers to adoption include the affordability of devices, digital skills, awareness, and the quality and cost of connectivity. The GSMA's Africa connectivity roadmap emphasizes the need for faster migration to 4G and 5G, coordinated investment in connectivity, and reduced costs for underserved communities.

Nigeria's Fibre-to-the-X subscriber base reached 319,735 in Q2 2026, a 29% increase from Q1. However, challenges remain in user experience and network quality, compounded by a significant increase in data consumption.