Nigeria’s active mobile GSM lines reached an all-time high of 224 million in 2023, up from 222 million in 2022.
The number of active lines has grown steadily from 40 million in 2007, with notable surges in 2012 (110 million), 2018 (172 million), and 2020 (204 million).
Growth slowed between 2016 and 2017, where active lines dipped slightly from 154 million to 145 million, before resuming an upward trajectory.
With over 220 million active lines, Nigeria remains one of Africa’s largest telecom markets, driven by increasing mobile adoption.
Instant messaging leads with 94% usage, reflecting its role as the primary communication tool for Nigerians.
Social media is used by 91% of mobile internet users, but only 65% engage with it for business purposes, showing its dominance in personal interactions.
Online voice and video calls are highly popular, emphasising a shift toward real-time digital communication.
Only 45% access government services, while 41% use online health platforms, indicating gaps in essential digital services.
Agriculture-related internet use is the lowest at 25%, highlighting the rural digital divide and limited online resources for the sector.
