The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has reported a substantial increase in active voice subscribers, reaching a staggering 221,769,883 in the third quarter of 2023. This marks a 4.51 per cent rise compared to the figures reported in Q3 2022, indicating the robust growth of the telecom sector.
Released in Abuja on Friday, the NBS Telecoms Data for Q3 2023 also disclosed a quarter-on-quarter increase of 0.76 per cent, with active voice subscribers rising from 220,086,951 in Q2 2023. The report further revealed that a total of 160,171,125 active internet subscribers were recorded in Q3 2023, reflecting a 4.83 per cent year-on-year increase.
Lagos State took the lead in active voice subscribers with 27,043,333, followed by Ogun and Kano with 13,136,247 and 12,192,122, respectively. Conversely, Bayelsa reported the lowest number of voice subscribers at 1,558,509.
In the realm of active internet subscribers, Lagos maintained its dominance with 19,188,745, trailed by Ogun and Kano. On the contrary, Bayelsa recorded the lowest number of internet subscribers at 1,195,580.
MTN emerged as the telecom giant with the highest share of subscriptions in Q3 2023, solidifying its position in the competitive telecom market. The notable surge in subscribers underscores the continued importance and expansion of telecommunications services in Nigeria.
