After pouring over $120 million into its 5G network, MTN Nigeria has taken the lead as the provider of the fastest internet speeds in West and Central Africa, according to Ookla Speedtest Intelligence. In the second quarter of 2024, the company’s download speed soared to an impressive 95.62 Mbps, with upload speeds hitting a record 17.01 Mbps—the highest the telco has ever recorded.
This is great news for MTN Nigeria’s 2.6 million 5G users, who can now enjoy ultra-fast internet for streaming, gaming, and other data-heavy activities. It also gives the telco a competitive edge, making it even more appealing to potential subscribers. MTN currently holds a dominant 50% share of Nigeria’s telecom market.
MTN Nigeria isn’t just leading locally—it’s outshining its sister companies in Ghana, Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, and Cameroon. It’s also ahead of rivals like Airtel, whose 4G network had a median download speed of 30.35 Mbps and upload speed of 10.28 Mbps as of 2022.
Since launching 5G in September 2022, MTN Nigeria has rapidly expanded its network. Initially available in seven major cities—including Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt—the network now reaches 11% of Nigeria’s population, powered by over 2,100 5G sites deployed nationwide.
“The impact of 5G is still emerging in the region, but Nigeria has been leading the way. MTN is looking to replicate this success across its other markets while continuing to invest in 4G infrastructure,” said Karim Yaici, a lead industry analyst at Ookla.
The numbers back it up: 5G adoption in Nigeria has grown from 17.2% in early 2023 to 35.7% by mid-2024, surpassing South Africa’s 31.6%. MTN remains the frontrunner in coverage, with Airtel following close behind. Meanwhile, Mafab Communication, which secured a 5G license in 2021, has yet to roll out its service.
With its investments paying off, MTN Nigeria is setting a high bar for connectivity, reinforcing the country’s position as a tech leader in the region.
As of September 2024, Nigeria had 3.3 million 5G subscribers, making up 2.19% of the country’s 154.9 million active mobile subscribers, according to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). MTN leads the 5G market with 2.6 million subscribers, representing about 79% of all 5G users in the country.