Globacom leads Nigeria’s Internet subscriber growth in May

Globacom, the leading Nigerian mobile network provider, experienced the most significant growth in Internet subscriber numbers in May, adding approximately 1.2 million new subscribers. This surge propelled Globacom's total subscriber base to 16.8 million, nearly half of the total increase observed in the country's Internet subscriber base. The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) reported that overall Internet subscriber numbers in Nigeria rose to 157 million in May, up from 154.3 million in April.

Airtel Nigeria secured the second-highest growth, gaining around 1.07 million subscribers, bringing its total to 55.8 million. MTN Nigeria added 382,894 subscribers, reaching a total of 83.5 million. T2 Mobile, previously known as 9mobile, reported no growth for the second month in a row, with its Internet subscriber base remaining at 802,534 subscribers.

The stagnant growth for T2 Mobile, despite the NCC's approval of a national roaming agreement with MTN Nigeria, indicates that the roaming arrangement has yet to yield noticeable subscriber growth for T2 Mobile. Analysts suggest that the growth may be attributable to Globacom's promotional campaigns and network upgrades, which could have lured previously inactive subscribers back to the network.

These efforts have helped Globacom narrow the gap with its larger competitors, as Airtel also demonstrated strong growth during the same period.

Telecom industry expert Osita Odafi explained that Globacom's subscriber growth might be linked to its promotional activities and enhanced network quality. The operator offers various promotional campaigns and incentives, such as prize giveaways, a "Welcome-Back" offer for inactive subscribers, and device promotions that provide data benefits for smartphone purchases.

The May figures underscore the evolving competitive landscape among Nigeria's Internet service providers, with Globacom, Airtel, and MTN each maintaining significant market shares.