Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) metrics show nationwide data consumption grew by 44% in the twelve months leading up to May 2026. Operators expanded over 12,000 cell sites and deployed 730 new 5G towers across 27 states to support rising digital demand. The growth in data consumption reflects Nigerians' increasing reliance on the internet for work, education, and entertainment. The expansion of network infrastructure is a positive development, as it will improve connectivity and support the digital economy.
The winners: telecom operators, which have seen increased demand; and Nigerian consumers, who benefit from improved connectivity. The losers: the Nigerian government, which must ensure that the infrastructure is sustained; and the Nigerian public, who must pay for the data.
Bottom Line: Data consumption is up 44%. Networks are expanding. The question is whether the infrastructure will keep pace with demand.