Imagine having a highway right outside your door, but never stepping foot on it. For 60% of Nigerians, this reality sadly mirrors their experience with mobile internet. Despite the widespread availability of 4G coverage, a significant portion of the population remains offline, a stark reminder of the digital divide that continues to plague the country.
This alarming statistic was revealed by Angela Wamola, Sub-Saharan Africa Head of the GSMA, during a recent webinar. “While a majority of Nigerians have access to 4G coverage,” she explained, “many are not utilizing these services.” This disconnect between access and usage paints a concerning picture of a nation struggling to harness the transformative power of the digital age.
Wamola further emphasised that only 19% of the population actively uses mobile internet via smartphones, with another 8% relying on feature phones. “A staggering 60% of our population, despite having access to at least 4G coverage, have never used mobile internet,” she revealed. “This includes 18% who own phones but remain offline and a concerning 42% who lack any device at all.”
This digital divide is not unique to Nigeria, but it presents a critical challenge to the nation’s economic and social progress. In a world increasingly reliant on digital technologies, an offline population risks being left behind, excluded from opportunities in education, employment, and access to essential services.
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The challenges are multifaceted. High infrastructure costs, outdated technologies, and the volatile economic climate all contribute to hindering telecom expansion, particularly in rural areas. This lack of investment threatens to further widen the digital gap and stifle innovation across the country.
Looking ahead, the slow adoption of 5G technology in Africa is another cause for concern. While Nigeria, South Africa, and Kenya lead 5G deployment on the continent, its reach is projected to cover only 17% of the population by 2030.
“Without urgent action,” Wamola cautioned, “Africa risks further lagging in digital transformation.” She urged the Nigerian government and telecom operators to prioritise 5G infrastructure development, attracting investment, and fostering the innovation that will drive future economic growth.
The stakes are high. The telecom sector already contributes significantly to the Nigerian economy, contributing 13.5% (N33 trillion) to GDP in 2023. Experts believe that further digitalisation across sectors like agriculture, manufacturing, transport, and government could inject an additional 2 percentage points into GDP by 2028.
Bridging the digital divide is not merely about providing access; it’s about empowering individuals and communities. By investing in robust infrastructure, promoting digital literacy, and ensuring equitable access to affordable devices, Nigeria can unlock the full potential of the digital economy and build a more inclusive and prosperous future for all its citizens.
