Nigeria's Top Telecom Operators Witness Record-Breaking Revenue Growth Amidst Increasing Demand for Digital Services
The Nigerian telecom sector has witnessed a remarkable surge in revenue, with MTN and Airtel, the country's top two telecom operators, generating a combined N2.53 trillion from voice and data services in the first half of 2025. This impressive growth is a testament to the increasing demand for digital services in the country, driven by a growing population of mobile subscribers and expanding network coverage. According to industry reports, the telecom sector has become a significant contributor to Nigeria's economy, with the operators investing heavily in network infrastructure and digital services to meet the growing demand.
The revenue growth can be attributed to several factors, including tariff reviews, increased smartphone penetration, and network investments. Both MTN and Airtel have implemented price adjustments, which have contributed to the increase in revenue. Additionally, the growing adoption of smartphones has driven data usage and revenue growth, with smartphone penetration rising to 62.6% for MTN and 51.4% for Airtel. The operators' investments in network infrastructure have also improved coverage and quality, supporting the growing demand for digital services. As a result, MTN's data revenue surged by 69.2% to N1.23 trillion, while Airtel's data revenue grew by 40.2% to N226.98 billion.
The telecom sector is expected to continue growing, driven by increasing demand for digital services and expanding networks. Both MTN and Airtel have revised their full-year guidance, forecasting service revenue and EBITDA margin growth of at least 50%. The growth prospects of the telecom sector are bright, with opportunities for further expansion and innovation. As the sector continues to evolve, it is expected to play an increasingly important role in driving economic growth and development in Nigeria. With the right policies and investments, the telecom sector can unlock its full potential and contribute to the country's economic prosperity.
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