…The subscriber data expected to decline further as the NCC continues to resolve discrepancies in subscriber records
SAT SEPT 13 2025-theGBJournal| Nigeria’s telecoms sector recorded a contraction in July, as active telephony subscribers fell by 1.4% m/m to 169.33 million (June: 171.73 million), largely reflecting the correction of reporting discrepancies by a major operator.
The July figure is based on data obtained from the National Communications Commission (NCC).
The total number of internet subscribers also weakened, declining by 2.1% m/m to 138.22 million (June: 141.17 million).
On a year-on-year basis, average telephony and internet subscriptions dropped by 20.4% and 11.3% respectively, underscoring the combined impact of SIM disconnections linked to NIN compliance and ongoing adjustments for reporting accuracy.
”We expect the subscriber data to decline further as the NCC continues to resolve discrepancies in subscriber records,” says analysts at Cordros Research.
Market dynamics remain concentrated, with MTN maintaining its dominant position at 52.7% share (89.14 million subscribers), well ahead of Airtel Nigeria at 33.4% (56.52 million).
Globacom retained a modest 12.3% share (20.74 million), while 9mobile continued to lag significantly, holding just 1.6% (2.73 million).
Overall, the latest data highlight structural pressures weighing on sector growth, as regulatory compliance measures and data corrections continue to suppress headline subscriber counts despite resilient underlying demand.
Cordros Research analysts say the anticipate that the ongoing SIM reactivation initiatives and reduced regulatory pressures will support a recovery in the subscriber base, with MTN Nigeria and Airtel Nigeria likely to lead the rebound, given their strong market presence and extensive distribution networks.
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