The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has observed a consistent increase in both active voice and internet subscriptions in Nigeria.
Dr. Reuben Muoka, NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, explained that these rising metrics are coupled with a decrease in teledensity, reflecting the latest telecommunications statistical indicators.
The adjustments made align with recent population growth figures, following international standards.
Muoka mentioned that the adjustment is based on the Nigerian Population Commission’s projection, indicating Nigeria’s population as 216,783,381 as of 2022, replacing the previous estimate of 190 million from 2017.
“With this adjustment, in line with the International Telecommunication Union’s calculation, the nation’s teledensity dropped from 115.63 percent to 102.30 percent in September.”
“Broadband penetration also witnessed a similar drop from 45.47 percent to 40.85 percent in the same month.
Active voice subscription statistics showed a marginal growth from 220,361,186 to 221,769,883 as of September 2023. Internet subscriptions also experienced a marginal increase from 159,034,717 in August 2023 to 160,171,757 in September 2023,” he said.
In October 2023, there was a 0.19% growth in active voice subscriptions, with a teledensity of 102.49%.
Internet subscriptions also rose by 0.60% compared to September 2023.
In November of the same year, the industry saw a 0.46% growth in active voice subscriptions, reaching a teledensity of 102.97%.
Additionally, there was a 0.57% increase in internet subscriptions compared to October 2023.
Muoka emphasized that teledensity is an index prescribed by the International Telecommunications Union for measuring telephone penetration in a population by a factor of one line per 100 individuals.
The adjustment aligns with Section 89 Subsection 3(d) of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003.
Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, endorsed the adjustment process, stating it upholds the integrity of data related to the Nigerian telecom industry.
He highlighted the importance of accurate measurement for monitoring progress, increasing broadband penetration rates, improving service quality, and expanding population coverage, providing valuable information for various stakeholders.
