Nigeria’s internet usage grows 44% to 1.5m terabytes

Nigeria has experienced a significant surge in internet data consumption, with usage climbing 44% in the year leading up to May 2026 to a record 1.5 million terabytes. This substantial increase highlights the growing dependence on digital services and data-heavy applications among both individuals and businesses in Africa's largest economy.

Data from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) indicates a rise in monthly data consumption from approximately 1.04 million terabytes in June 2025 to about 1.50 million terabytes in May 2026. This growth underscores the accelerating demand for reliable internet connectivity, which is now integral to various economic activities, including financial services, commerce, entertainment, and education.

The escalating internet traffic places considerable pressure on existing telecommunications infrastructure. Operators are compelled to expand network capacity and invest in essential assets such as fiber optics, spectrum, transmission infrastructure, and data centers to accommodate the burgeoning volume of data. While consumption fluctuated monthly, a sustained upward trend emerged towards the end of the 12-month period.

For telecommunications companies, this rise in data consumption presents a dual opportunity and challenge. It offers a chance to expand digital service offerings but simultaneously necessitates increased investment to uphold network quality and manage higher traffic loads. The industry continues to grapple with consumer complaints regarding slow speeds and network disruptions, intensifying the need for operators to enhance performance as demand escalates.