Nigerian Internet Usage Soars Past 1 Petabyte Despite Tariff Hike
Despite a significant 50% increase in tariffs for voice, data, and SMS services, internet usage in Nigeria has defied expectations, reaching a new peak of 1,043,431.98 terabytes (TB) in May 2025. This impressive figure, initially reported by local media, surpasses the previous high of 1,000,930.60 TB recorded in January, demonstrating the nation’s growing dependence on digital connectivity even in the face of economic hurdles.
Connectivity Triumphs Over Cost
The surge in internet consumption occurred despite the National Communication Commission’s (NCC) approval of the tariff hike in January 2025, a move intended to alleviate the financial strain on telecom operators. This increase, the first in over a decade, raised the floor price for calls from ₦6.40 to ₦9.60 per minute, SMS from ₦4 to ₦6, and 1 GB of data from ₦287.50 to ₦431.25. Telecom companies argued that the price adjustments were necessary to offset escalating operational costs driven by inflation, currency devaluation, and rising energy expenses. Initially, the tariff increase appeared to have the intended effect of reducing internet usage, with consumption dropping from January’s peak to 893,054.80 TB in February.
In conclusion, the remarkable rebound in internet usage highlights the critical role that digital connectivity plays in the lives of Nigerians. While the tariff hike initially dampened consumption, the subsequent surge demonstrates the resilience of demand and the increasing importance of internet access for communication, commerce, and access to information in Nigeria.
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