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The number of internet subscribers in Nigeria decreased to 159.49 million in June 2023, according to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). This indicates a decline of 99,625 subscribers or 0.06% in just one month. Mobile (GSM) subscribers accounted for the majority at 158.94 million, while fixed wire and VoIP subscribers made up the remaining users.

In the same period, all telecommunication companies, except for Globacom, recorded a decrease in internet subscriptions. MTN Nigeria saw a drop of 33,610 subscribers, 9mobile saw a decrease of 135,748 subscribers, and Airtel had a reduction of 142,914 subscribers. On the other hand, Globacom gained 218,904 internet subscribers.

The NCC data also revealed a decline in broadband penetration from 48.28% in May 2023 to 47.01% in June 2023. Broadband penetration is calculated by dividing the number of fixed and mobile broadband subscriptions by the population of a country.

Furthermore, the NCC issued a warning to Nigerians against using phones and telecommunication devices that have not been approved by the commission. Non-approved devices, often sourced from grey markets, are known to degrade the quality of network services. The certification of devices used in the telecom sector is part of the NCC’s mandate, and the commission emphasized the risks faced by sellers of unapproved devices, including possible arrest and prosecution.

At the recent Market Conversation event organized by the NCC, Deputy Director of the Consumer Affairs Bureau, Dr. Emilia Nwokoro, emphasized the need to sensitize traders about the dangers of trading in substandard products. The Chairman of the GSM Village Market in Abuja, Macdonald Ajuogu, highlighted the market union’s task force that monitors the types and standards of devices sold in the market to ensure compliance with approved standards.

It is important for consumers to be aware of the risks associated with using non-approved devices and for telecommunications companies to address the decline in internet subscriptions and broadband penetration to ensure continued connectivity across Nigeria.

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