Internet Access Uneven: Lagos and 9 States Dominate Nigeria’s Online Landscape in 2017
Data released by the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reveals a significant disparity in internet access across the country during the third quarter of 2017. While Nigeria’s total active internet subscriptions reached 93,263,436, a substantial 54.9% of these subscribers were concentrated in Lagos and just nine other states. This highlights a considerable digital divide and underscores the need for more equitable internet access across all regions of Nigeria.
Key Telecom Trends in Q3 2017
The NBS report details other key trends in Nigeria’s telecom sector. While internet subscriptions saw a slight increase of 1.22% compared to the same period in 2016, active voice subscriptions experienced a notable drop of 8.73%, falling to 139,907,213. GSM technology overwhelmingly dominated both voice and internet subscriptions, accounting for 90.70% of usage. Other technologies, including CDMA, Fixed Wires/Wireless, and VoIP, collectively represented a mere 0.30% of active voice subscriptions. Further details in the report confirmed MTN as the leading network provider in Nigeria.
In conclusion, the 2017 NBS data paints a picture of a growing, albeit uneven, internet landscape in Nigeria. The concentration of internet subscribers in a limited number of states emphasizes the urgent need for policies and initiatives aimed at expanding internet access and bridging the digital divide across the nation. This will be crucial for fostering inclusive economic growth and ensuring that all Nigerians can participate in the digital economy.
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