By 
Nigeria has observed a consistent rise in active voice and internet subscriptions, accompanied by a decrease in teledensity, according to the latest telecommunications statistical indicators released by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). These indicators, adjusted to align with the latest population growth figures and international best practices, signify the evolving landscape of the country’s telecommunications sector.
In a statement by Reuben Muoka, the Director of Public Affairs at NCC, the adjustments, reflected in the statistical reports for September, October, and November 2023, were based on the Nigerian Population Commission’s projection of the country’s population at 216,783,381 as of 2022. This figure replaced the previously utilized 2017 projection of 190 million people.
The adjustment aligns with the International Telecommunication Union’s (ITU) teledensity calculation, resulting in a drop from 115.63% to 102.30% in September, and a similar decline in broadband penetration from 45.47% to 40.85% in the same month.
However, the active voice subscription statistics experienced a marginal growth from 220,361,186 to 221,769,883 in September 2023. Internet subscriptions also witnessed a slight increase, rising from 159,034,717 in August 2023 to 160,171,757 in September 2023.
In October 2023, the industry saw a 0.19% growth in active voice subscriptions, while teledensity stood at 102.49%, and internet subscriptions increased by 0.60% compared to September 2023.
November of the same year recorded a 0.46% growth in active voice subscriptions, with teledensity at 102.97% and a 0.57% rise in internet subscriptions compared to October 2023.
Teledensity, as prescribed by the International Telecommunications Union, measures telephone penetration in a population per 100 individuals. The Commission’s adjustment adheres to Section 89 Subsection 3(d) of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003, emphasizing its mandate to monitor and report on the state of the telecommunications industry.
Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman of NCC, affirmed the importance of the adjustment process to maintain data integrity. He highlighted its role in accurately measuring the Commission’s progress toward increased broadband penetration, improved quality of service, and expanded population coverage, aligning with the Strategic Plan for the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy. The adjusted data serves as valuable information for international organizations, investors, operators, and the general public.
