Global Internet Users Rise by 240 Million in 2025 Amid Cost and Accessibility Challenges

Global digital connectivity continues to expand, with an estimated 240 million people joining the online world in 2025, according to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). The new data brings the total number of Internet users worldwide to around six billion—approximately three-quarters of the global population—up from 5.8 billion in 2024. Despite this growth, 2.2 billion people remain offline, reflecting persistent disparities in digital access.

In Nigeria, Internet access via narrowband has declined, falling from 142.2 million users at the start of the year to 140.9 million by September. Analysts attribute the drop to a 50% tariff increase imposed on telecom operators in January. Meanwhile, broadband subscriptions have grown, rising from 98.8 million to 106.9 million in the same period, largely driven by businesses and urban users seeking faster, more reliable connectivity.

ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin emphasized that access to digital technologies is no longer optional, but a critical part of modern life. “Digital divides today are defined not just by access, but by speed, reliability, affordability, and skills,” she said, highlighting the need for investment in infrastructure, training, and affordable services to ensure everyone benefits from emerging technologies like artificial intelligence.

The report also highlights the uneven rollout of 5G networks, which now cover 55% of the global population. High-income countries enjoy 84% coverage, while low-income countries lag at just 4%. Nigeria’s 5G penetration remains low at 3.37%, with only 5.6 million subscribers out of 173 million active telephone users. By contrast, 3G and 4G networks reach most of the global population, though they are less capable of supporting advanced digital services.

Affordability and digital skills remain major barriers to universal connectivity. ITU notes that mobile broadband costs are still out of reach for around 60% of people in low- and middle-income countries, while digital literacy beyond basic skills develops slowly. The report underscores that equitable Internet access is closely linked to economic status, gender, and location, with urban youth most connected, while rural populations, women, and residents of low-income nations face persistent challenges.

source: The Guardian