Despite the impressive growth in mobile internet usage, with an astounding 501.99 percent increase over five years, Nigeria faces a significant challenge in digital connectivity. Approximately 120 million Nigerians remain disconnected from the mobile internet, largely due to poor infrastructure and high costs associated with smartphones and internet access. This situation highlights a paradox in a country where mobile connectivity is crucial, yet many citizens are unable to take part in the digital revolution.
Mobile Internet Growth Amidst Challenges
The rise in mobile internet usage is a testament to the transformative power of smartphones in Nigeria. According to the GSMA, a global body representing the telecommunications industry, the vast majority of internet users in Nigeria rely primarily on mobile devices, as evidenced by the fact that less than 20 percent of households owned a computer in 2023, according to World Bank data. Adia Sowho, former Chief Marketing Officer of MTN Nigeria, encapsulates this shift by stating, “Smartphones have become the computer for many Nigerians today.”
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However, despite this growth, there are significant gaps in digital infrastructure, especially in rural areas. High smartphone costs have compounded the issue, leaving millions without access to essential technologies. Sowho further notes the challenges posed by the high costs of smartphones, which are often prohibitively expensive for the average consumer. In response, MTN launched a device financing scheme in 2022 to make smartphones more accessible.
The Scope of the Connectivity Gap
The GSMA’s report, “The State of Mobile Internet Connectivity 2024,” indicates that the 120 million disconnected Nigerians are part of a broader global issue, where over 3.1 billion people do not utilize mobile internet services, despite its availability in their areas. The report also reveals that around 29 percent of Nigerians (approximately 58 million) currently use the internet, highlighting a substantial opportunity for growth in digital inclusion.
Mobile internet is crucial for various activities, with 85 percent of users employing it for video calls, 75 percent watching free online videos, and 54 percent streaming free music. As of the end of 2023, the global mobile internet user count reached 4.6 billion, accounting for 57 percent of the world’s population, demonstrating the increasing reliance on mobile connectivity.
Rural vs. Urban Connectivity
The digital divide is particularly pronounced between urban and rural areas in Nigeria. Smartphone penetration in urban regions rose to 59 percent in 2023, while it declined from 32 percent to 26 percent in rural areas. Similarly, mobile internet usage in urban regions stands at 59 percent, contrasting sharply with just 28 percent in rural communities. This disparity raises concerns about equitable access to digital services and the implications for economic development.
Economic Factors Impacting Connectivity
Economic factors play a significant role in the digital divide. Karl Toriola, CEO of MTNN, points out that inflation and rising costs have severely impacted consumers’ purchasing power, making smartphones increasingly unaffordable. The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reported that inflation erased approximately N7.61 trillion from consumer spending in 2023, exacerbating the challenges of digital inclusion.
In addition to high costs, connectivity gaps remain a critical barrier. The GSMA notes that Sub-Saharan Africa has the highest coverage gap at 13 percent, underscoring the need for significant investments in infrastructure to improve access. Nigeria faces a substantial 90,000-kilometer fiber infrastructure gap, which leads to slow and unreliable internet service.
Infrastructure and Policy Solutions
Addressing the digital divide in Nigeria requires a multifaceted approach that includes improving infrastructure and reducing costs. Chris Wood, CEO of WIOCC Group, emphasizes the importance of last-mile infrastructure, stating that a robust and resilient fiber network is essential for enhancing user experience. The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) highlights that 27 million Nigerians currently lack access to telecom services, and many local government areas remain without internet access.
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The Nigerian government recognizes the necessity of bridging these gaps. Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, stated the government’s commitment to building the infrastructure required for a thriving digital economy. He emphasized that quality access is fundamental to achieving these goals.
The Role of Global Initiatives
To close the digital divide, GSMA advocates for substantial investments in infrastructure alongside efforts to increase device affordability. The organization suggests that lowering the cost of internet-enabled devices to $20 could significantly reduce the usage gap. With global initiatives aimed at enhancing connectivity, closing the digital gap could potentially contribute over $3.5 trillion to the global GDP between 2023 and 2030, with an estimated $900 billion expected by 2030 alone.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
The digital divide in Nigeria presents both a challenge and an opportunity. As the country strives to improve its digital infrastructure and connectivity, it is crucial for stakeholders, including the government, telecommunications companies, and international organizations, to collaborate effectively. Addressing these challenges will not only enhance access to technology but also foster economic growth and empower millions of Nigerians to participate fully in the digital economy. As the world moves toward achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals, bridging the digital divide must remain a priority for Nigeria and beyond.
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