GSMA Alerts Nigeria on Smartphone Costs Impacting Internet Access

The Global System for Mobile Communications Association (GSMA) has issued a warning regarding the rising costs of smartphone components, which could hinder digital inclusion in Nigeria and other emerging markets. In its State of Mobile Internet Connectivity Report 2026, released on September 16, 2026, GSMA identified handset affordability as the primary barrier to mobile internet adoption in low- and middle-income countries.

The report states that over 3.4 billion people globally do not use mobile internet, with more than 90% residing in areas with mobile broadband coverage. The poorest 20% in these countries spend an average of 44% of their monthly income on entry-level smartphones, which increases to 76% in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Rising costs of memory and chipsets, driven by demand from artificial intelligence infrastructure, further exacerbate this issue. Badrinath called for coordinated efforts among policymakers, mobile operators, and manufacturers to improve device affordability.

The report highlights Nigeria's ongoing challenges with digital inclusion, despite broadband penetration exceeding 50% in late 2025.