- NCC adapts statistical indicators to reflect latest population figures
In the most recent telecommunications statistical update released by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Nigeria has observed a consistent rise in active voice and internet subscriptions, accompanied by a decline in teledensity. In a statement, NCC Director, Public Affairs Reuben Muoka said these indicators, adjusted to incorporate the latest population growth statistics and align with international standards, were published on the Commission’s website for the months of September, October, and November 2023.
He said the adjustment was prompted by the Nigerian Population Commission (NPC)’s projection of Nigeria’s population, now estimated at 216,783,381 as of 2022, replacing the previous projection of 190 million people in 2017.
Muoka said as a consequence of this adjustment, in accordance with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU)’s calculation methodology for teledensity, the national teledensity decreased from 115.63% to 102.30% in September. Concurrently, broadband penetration also experienced a reduction from 45.47% to 40.85% during the same month. However, active voice subscriptions exhibited a marginal growth, increasing from 220,361,186 to 221,769,883 as of September 2023. Additionally, internet subscriptions showed a slight increase, rising from 159,034,717 in August 2023 to 160,171,757 in September 2023.
In October 2023, the industry witnessed a 0.19% growth in active voice subscriptions, while teledensity stood at 102.49%, and internet subscriptions increased by 0.60% compared to September 2023.
November of the same year saw a further 0.46% growth in active voice subscriptions. Teledensity reached 102.97%, accompanied by a 0.57% increase in internet subscriptions compared to October 2023.
Teledensity, an index defined by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) to measure telephone penetration, signifies one line per 100 individuals in the population.
The adjustment aligns with Section 89 Subsection 3(d) of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003 (NCA 2003), mandating the Commission to monitor and report on the state of the Nigerian telecommunications industry, offering statistical analysis and identifying trends concerning services, tariffs, operators, technology, subscribers, and competition.
Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, emphasized the appropriateness of the telecom statistical adjustment to uphold the integrity of data related to the Nigerian telecom industry. He highlighted its role in accurately measuring the Commission’s progress towards achieving increased broadband penetration rates, improved service quality, and expanded population coverage, in line with the objectives outlined in the Strategic Plan for the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy.
Dr. Maida emphasized that this data serves not only the International Telecommunications Union but also other development agencies, operators, investors, multilateral agencies, and the general public.
