Nigeria’s telecommunications sector saw significant growth in the first half of 2026, with active subscriptions rising by 10 million to 192.23 million and broadband connections increasing by over 8 million. Data consumption surged to 8.52 million terabytes, a 43 percent year-on-year increase, translating to an estimated economic value of N3.67 trillion. This transition from a voice-led to a data-driven market is evidenced by rising 4G and 5G penetration alongside a decline in older network generations. Regulators and operators emphasize that internet connectivity has shifted from a convenience to a critical utility, highlighting an urgent need for infrastructure development, including the government’s Project BRIDGE, to support the country’s accelerating digital economy.