In a recent revelation from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the nation’s telephone density, known as teledensity, has undergone a notable decline, dropping from 115.63 percent to 102.30 percent. The NCC clarified that this adjustment is a response to the latest population growth figures, aligning with international best practices.
This shift, documented in the telecom industry statistical reports spanning September, October, and November 2023 and accessible on the Commission’s website, stems from an updated projection of Nigeria’s population by the Nigerian Population Commission (NPC). The revised estimate stands at 216,783,381 as of 2022, superseding the previously utilized 2017 projection of 190 million people.
Despite the decline in teledensity, the NCC highlighted a consistent upswing in active voice and Internet subscriptions in Nigeria. Reuben Muoka, Director of Public Affairs, emphasized this point in a Tuesday night release, stating, “With the consequential adjustment, which is in line with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU)’s calculation of teledensity, the nation’s teledensity dropped from 115.63 per cent to 102.30 per cent in September, while Broadband penetration witnessed a similar drop from 45.47 per cent to 40.85 per cent in the same month.
“However, the active voice subscription statistics witnessed a marginal growth from 220,361,186 to 221,769,883 as of September 2023. In addition, Internet subscriptions also enjoyed a marginal growth, from 159,034,717 in August 2023 to 160,171,757 in September 202.”
The NCC reported a 0.19% growth in Active Voice subscriptions in October 2023, with a teledensity of 102.49% and a 0.60% increase in Internet subscriptions compared to September 2023. In November, the industry experienced a 0.46% growth in Active Voice subscriptions, maintaining a teledensity of 102.97%, and a 0.57% rise in Internet subscriptions from October 2023.
Teledensity, measured as an index by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), assesses telephone penetration per 100 individuals. The adjustment aligns with Section 89 Subsection 3(d) of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003, empowering the NCC to monitor and report industry trends.
Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman of NCC, underscored the importance of accurate data for evaluating broadband penetration, service quality, and population coverage. This ensures support for national targets and international obligations, solidifying Nigeria’s stance in the ever-evolving telecommunications landscape.
