Nigerians are spending more on mobile data than ever, with MTN and Airtel reporting record earnings as internet use explodes across the country.
Recent financial reports show MTN Nigeria’s data revenue soared 85.6% to ₦701billion in Q2 2025, compared to ₦377billion last year. Airtel Nigeria followed closely, with a 60.3% rise to ₦260billion ($168million), showing that data is now the biggest driver of growth for both telecom giants.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) confirmed that data consumption broke new records in May 2025, reaching 1.04 million terabytes, the highest since 2023. MTN said its average user now consumes 13.2GB per month, up over 26% from last year, while Airtel’s smartphone customers used an average of 11.8GB per month, a sharp jump from 9.9GB.
Daily life now revolves around digital platforms, for many Nigerians. Social media, video streaming, online gaming, and even work meetings have all shifted online. Abraham Aduloju, a 28-year-old content creator in Lagos, captured this change:
“Everything I do is online – Zoom meetings, WhatsApp calls, editing videos. I use at least 30GB a week.”
Experts say short-form video apps like TikTok and Instagram Reels are driving usage, while the demand for remote work tools and livestreaming has pushed people to spend more on data. According to Adewale Adeoye, a telecom specialist,
“Apps that autoplay videos eat a lot of data. Many people now budget specifically for their internet needs.”
The need for reliable connectivity has become so central that some prioritize topping up their data plans over food. Presley Ibadin, CEO of K-Chronos Global Tech Limited, explained:
“Data is now a lifeline. Some may not have food at home but will always keep their phones online to stay connected or reach out for help.”
To meet the rush, operators are pouring billions into infrastructure. MTN ramped up its capital spending by almost 290% in the first half of 2025, investing ₦565.7billion to add new 4G sites, expand fiber networks, and start a new data centre. Airtel Africa increased its Nigerian capital spending to $39million in the last quarter and has announced bigger investments to push 5G coverage and improve networks, especially in rural areas.
Despite the growth, Nigerians still face quality and reliability issues, leading many to keep SIMs from different providers to avoid blackouts. Still, telecom companies are racing to upgrade, hoping to bridge the gap and keep up with the country’s ever-connected youth.
