How Did Nigeria Reach 7th in Sub-Saharan Internet Speed and Improve Globally in 2024?

Nigeria has taken significant strides in its internet capabilities. According to the latest 2024 Worldwide Broadband Speed Report by Cable.co.uk, Nigeria now boasts an average internet download speed of 27.62 Mbps.

This places Nigeria as seventh in Sub-Saharan Africa and marks a notable improvement on the global stage from 133rd in 2023 to 132nd in 2024. 

Behind the numbers

While still behind leaders like Réunion and South Africa, which clocked in speeds of 63.29 Mbps and 42.42 Mbps respectively, Nigeria’s advancement is commendable. The contrast is stark across the continent, with the average internet speed in Africa reported at just 14.99 Mbps. 

This places Africa as the second-slowest region globally, highlighting the considerable digital divide that still exists.

Nigeria’s jump in the rankings is not just a number—it’s a reflection of broader socio-economic advancements and technological uptake within the country. 

The push towards better connectivity is part of Nigeria’s National Broadband Plan (NBP 2020-2025), which targets substantial increases in both the speed and accessibility of the internet for its citizens.

Technological enhancements and investments

The acceleration in internet speed can largely be attributed to the deployment of 5G networks by major providers like MTN and Airtel, and the introduction of Elon Musk’s Starlink, which promises even faster speeds. 

These technological advancements have not only improved speed but also the reliability of internet services, crucial for businesses and personal communications alike.

Urban areas, in particular, have seen the most significant benefits, with speeds surpassing the 15Mbps target set for 2023 in the National Broadband Plan. 

However, rural areas are not left entirely behind, with efforts ongoing to boost connectivity beyond urban centers, aiming for a minimum of 5Mbps as stipulated by the plan.

What to note

Nigeria is actively working to enhance internet speeds and expand access under its National Broadband Plan (NBP 2020-2025). 

While not all targets have been met, progress in broadband speeds has been notable, with recent achievements surpassing expectations.

Originally targeting speeds of 15Mbps in urban areas and 5Mbps in rural areas by 2023, Nigeria has exceeded these goals with an average speed of 27.62Mbps. 

This advancement is largely credited to the introduction of 5G networks by MTN and Airtel and the entry of Elon Musk’s Starlink, which provides speeds over 50Mbps, benefiting both urban and rural users.