Nigerian Mobile Data Consumption Hits Record High in November 2025

In November 2025, Nigerians set a new record for mobile data consumption, reaching 1.236 million terabytes, the highest monthly volume ever recorded in the country. The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) released data showing a steady increase in data usage throughout 2025, despite economic pressures.

The growth was attributed to factors like increased internet subscriptions, wider 4G coverage, and rising demand for video streaming, social media, and digital financial services. MTN subscribers consumed an average of 13 gigabytes per month, while Airtel users averaged close to 10 gigabytes.

The NCC highlighted challenges in the sector, including limited 5G adoption, high device costs, spectrum availability, and infrastructure issues like fiber cuts and power supply problems. To address these challenges, the NCC is looking to strengthen partnerships, such as with Sweden's Swedfund, to support the deployment of 5G networks in Nigeria and boost confidence in the digital economy.