Fastest Internet Speeds in West and Central Africa
MTN Nigeria has achieved a significant milestone in telecommunications, securing the title of the fastest internet provider in West and Central Africa (WCA). The latest data from Ookla Speedtest Intelligence reveals that MTN’s 5G network boasts download speeds of 95.62 Mbps and upload speeds of 17.01 Mbps, making it a leader in the region.
Empowering Over 2.6 Million Subscribers
This development is a win for MTN Nigeria’s 2.6 million 5G users who require high-speed connectivity for their digital needs. With a 50% share of the Nigerian telecom market, MTN’s achievement is likely to attract even more subscribers seeking reliable and fast internet services.
Dominance in Regional and Local Markets
Outpacing MTN Group Subsidiaries and Competitors
Among the MTN Group’s subsidiaries, MTN Nigeria stands out, outperforming counterparts in Ghana, Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, and Cameroon in both download and upload speeds. Locally, MTN Nigeria surpasses competitors like Airtel, whose 4G network offers a median download speed of 30.35 Mbps and upload speed of 10.28 Mbps as of 2022.
5G Expansion: A Strategic Growth Path
From Launch to Leadership
Since launching its 5G network in September 2022, MTN Nigeria has rapidly expanded its reach. Starting with seven major cities—Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Ibadan, Kano, Owerri, and Maiduguri—the network now covers 11% of Nigeria’s population. This expansion is supported by over $120 million in infrastructure investments and more than 2,100 5G sites deployed nationwide.
Regional Leadership in 5G Adoption
MTN Nigeria’s leadership extends beyond speed. By Q2 2024, 5G penetration in Nigeria reached 35.70%, surpassing South Africa’s 31.6% penetration. MTN Nigeria’s extensive network coverage solidifies its dominance, even as competitors like Airtel and ISP Mafab Communication attempt to establish a foothold in the 5G space.
Early Stages of Regional 5G Development
While 5G is still in its infancy in most of West and Central Africa, MTN Nigeria is setting the pace for expansion. “MTN is keen to expand 5G coverage to the rest of its footprint, following the examples of Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire, while continuing to invest in its 4G network infrastructure,” said Karim Yaici, lead industry analyst at Ookla.
Next Steps for Nigeria’s Telecom Industry
Despite the rapid growth, challenges remain. Mafab Communication, which secured a 5G license in December 2021, has yet to roll out its services, indicating potential delays in broader 5G adoption.
A New Era for Connectivity in Nigeria
MTN Nigeria’s strategic investment in 5G not only cements its leadership in the telecom sector but also highlights Nigeria’s growing role as a hub for technological advancement in the region. With continued investment and expansion, MTN is shaping the future of connectivity across West and Central Africa.
Source: inclusifund.com
