The Recent Decline in Internet Usage in Nigeria: A Deeper Look

Recent data from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) presents a compelling, if somewhat alarming, narrative about internet usage in the country. Between January and April, total internet consumption dropped from an impressive 1,000,930.60 terabytes to 983,283.43 terabytes. This translates to a notable 1.76 percent decline over a mere three months. How often do we stop to consider what these figures mean for everyday Nigerians?

This decline didn’t happen in a vacuum. The NCC’s decision to raise data tariffs by an astonishing 50% has left many consumers and businesses reeling. The stark reality is that for many, internet access is no longer a mere convenience; it’s become a necessity. Yet, how can one prioritize an essential service when the costs surge?

Rising Costs: A Closer Examination

To put the price adjustments into context, the monthly plan for 1.8GB has jumped from ₦1,000 to ₦1,500. The previous plan of 1.5GB is now obsolete, replaced by a more expensive alternative that offers only marginally more data. Similarly, the 20GB plan increased to ₦7,500 from ₦5,500, while the 15GB plan has seen a comparable rise, now priced at ₦6,500, up from ₦4,500. Larger packages have experienced even steeper increases. It makes one wonder: how are families coping in an already strained economic landscape?

One might also consider the staggering 90-day 1.5TB plan, which has seen its price skyrocket from ₦150,000 to ₦240,000. Meanwhile, the 600GB 90-day plan is now priced at ₦120,000, up from ₦75,000. For the average Nigerian, these hikes are not just numbers; they directly affect daily life, limiting access to vital information and communication channels.

The price changes, initiated in February, have unarguably contributed to decreased internet consumption figures. With inflation affecting various sectors, many Nigerians are being forced to reevaluate their digital lives. It’s a poignant reminder that in times of financial hardship, luxuries like consistent internet use often make way for more pressing needs.

The Irony of Profit Amidst Strain

Interestingly, despite these struggles, MTN Nigeria, one of the country’s leading telecommunications companies, reported an astounding revenue of ₦1 trillion for the first quarter of 2025, marking a 40.5% increase compared to the N752.9 billion recorded in the same quarter the previous year. The figures almost seem to tell two different stories—while the telecom giants thrive, the average consumer finds themselves grappling with the consequences of rising costs. How do we reconcile these opposing narratives?

An analysis showcased in sources like Punch illustrates a dramatic and immediate decline in utilization following the implementation of the new fees. For instance, February saw internet consumption drop to 893,054.80 terabytes—a 10.8% decrease from January. March rebounded slightly, but by April, usage diminished even further, illustrating the tangible impact of tariff hikes.

The Socioeconomic Context

It’s essential to view these statistics through the lens of Nigeria’s broader economic challenges. As inflation reached 32.47% by the end of 2024—up from 29.90% at the year’s start—many families were left scrambling to cope with torn budgets. Reports suggested the telecommunications sector could experience revenue losses of up to $11.3 billion between 2022 and 2026 due to postponements of necessary tariff adjustments that overwhelming operational costs demanded after more than a decade without price increases.

In 2022, telecom firms initially pushed for a 40% increase. However, as the Nigerian naira plummeted from around ₦600 to an astonishing ₦1,600 per dollar by 2023, demands escalated to a full 100% hike. It’s a stark reminder of how interconnected our world is; decisions made in corporate boardrooms reverberate through the lives of individuals trying to make ends meet.

The Path Forward

Moving forward, we must ask ourselves: how can a balance be struck? The telecommunications sector must remain profitable to provide sustainable services, but at what cost to its users? As Nigeria continues to evolve—asking these tough questions may point us towards solutions that support both economic growth and the accessibility of essential services. After all, a connected society can facilitate broader opportunities; the question remains if that connection is becoming too costly for many.

In reflecting upon these developments, it becomes clear that internet access is not just a commodity but a lifeline for many Nigerians. The concern is whether these hikes are a short-term fix for long-term issues, or if they pave the way for more extensive accessibility solutions down the line. Only time will tell.