Nigeria’s Broadband Penetration Hits 49.89% — 70% 2025 Target Likely Unattainable

Nigeria is set to miss its ambitious broadband penetration target of 70% by the end of 2025, according to recent data released by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). The statistics revealed that broadband penetration in the country stood at 49.89% as of October 2025, signaling a significant gap from the National Broadband Plan (NBP 2020-2025) goal.

The National Broadband Plan had envisioned reaching 70% broadband penetration by December 2025, aiming to expand digital access across Nigeria. However, with less than two weeks remaining in the year, experts say it is highly unlikely that the target will be met. Broadband subscriptions currently total 108 million, reflecting modest growth in recent months.

Monthly data throughout 2025 show a slow but fluctuating growth pattern. Broadband penetration rose from 48.15% in April to 49.89% in October, while subscriptions increased from 104 million to 108 million over the same period. Despite small gains, growth remains insufficient to meet the end-of-year goal.

The NCC had previously reassured Nigerians that the country would surpass 50% broadband penetration in 2023 and possibly reach 70% by 2025, citing telecoms’ contribution to GDP, which stood at 16% in Q2 2023. However, the sector’s contribution has since declined to 9.2% in Q2 2025, reflecting challenges in expansion and adoption.

Gbenga Adebayo, Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), noted that ongoing investments in fiber optic infrastructure, cell site upgrades, and fiber-to-the-home connectivity are expected to improve broadband coverage. “Significant growth will likely be visible by 2026,” he said, emphasizing the need for widespread connectivity from coastal areas to underserved inland communities.

Source: This day