MTN Active Data Users Hit 51.1 Million

MTN Nigeria is solidifying its position as a key player in advancing the federal government’s broadband objectives by reporting a substantial increase in its active data user base, which has now reached 51.1 million.

This marks a 12.8 percent rise, highlighting the company’s ongoing investments in network infrastructure and its growing digital presence throughout the nation.

This growth is attributed to MTN’s comprehensive rollout of 4G and 5G technologies, as well as the rapid expansion of its Fibre-to-the-Home (FTTH) network.

These developments are pivotal in establishing a framework for faster and more inclusive broadband access in Nigeria.

In a recent video, MTN emphasized its leadership in the telecommunications sector, noting it has become the first telecom operator to achieve over 82 percent 4G coverage and to introduce 5G technology in Nigeria, which has already reached approximately 15 million residents.

The expansion of MTN’s network is underpinned by a significant financial commitment, as evidenced by a 248 percent increase in capital expenditure, excluding leases, amounting to N757.4 billion. This represents one of the most substantial annual investments in Nigeria’s telecommunications industry.

The majority of this funding is focused on enhancing network capacity, alleviating congestion, and providing high-speed broadband access to homes through FTTH. As a result of these initiatives, home broadband subscriptions have risen to 4 million, with an addition of 281,000 new users during the third quarter alone.

Data demand among Nigerians continues to rise sharply, propelling a 36.3 per cent year-on-year jump in overall traffic.

MTN reported that average data usage per subscriber increased by 20.8 per cent to 13.2GB, highlighting the growing appetite for high-speed connectivity as more citizens consume video, gaming, digital learning, remote work, and entertainment services.

The company’s ability to sustain such heavy investment is strengthened by its financial turnaround, with MTN recording a post-tax profit of N750.2 billion.

Beyond telecoms infrastructure, MTN is also deepening its role in national development through initiatives such as the rehabilitation of the 110-kilometre Enugu–Onitsha Expressway under the federal government’s Road Infrastructure Tax Credit (RITC) scheme.

According to Tobe Okigbo, MTN’s Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer, the company’s long-term ambition is tied to digital inclusion for every Nigerian. “We are committed to ensuring that we provide through these platforms access at the fingertips of every Nigerian. Oh yes, we truly believe that everyone deserves the benefits of a modern connected life,” he said.