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Telcos Record Massive Revenue Surge Despite Tariff Hike
Nigeria’s leading telecom operators, MTN Nigeria and Airtel Nigeria, have posted robust revenue growth in the first half of 2025, driven by a 50% end-user tariff hike approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). The development highlights Nigerians’ continued demand for voice and data services, despite the increased costs.
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MTN Service Revenue Hits ₦2.4 Trillion, Airtel Rakes in $1.42 Billion
According to financial results for the period ending June 30, 2025, MTN Nigeria reported a 54.6% increase in service revenue, reaching ₦2.4 trillion, up from ₦1.55 trillion in H1 2024.
Airtel Africa also recorded a strong performance, reporting $1.415 billion in revenue, marking 24.9% growth in constant currency and 22.4% in reported currency, reflecting a steady recovery from past currency challenges.
Data and Voice Drive Consumer Spending to New Heights
Subscribers on both networks spent a combined ₦2.53 trillion on telecom services in H1 2025—a 50.9% increase from ₦1.68 trillion in H1 2024. MTN alone generated ₦2.12 trillion from voice and data, representing a 55.7% growth.
- Data revenue rose sharply by 69.2% to ₦1.23 trillion, up from ₦727.3 billion in the same period in 2024.
- Voice revenue increased by 40.3% year-on-year to ₦887.13 billion.
MTN attributed the gains to strong consumer demand, increased smartphone penetration, tariff adjustments, and continued expansion of its active data user base.
Nigeria’s Telecom Market Powers Ahead
Nigeria remains Africa’s largest telecom market, contributing significantly to GDP and internet penetration. The sector’s sustained growth is a major driver of the digital economy and national development.
According to market forecasts, Nigeria’s telecom sector is projected to grow from $10.77 billion in 2025 to $17.13 billion by 2034, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.20%. This growth trajectory underscores the importance of ongoing infrastructure investment, regulatory support, and increased adoption of mobile and digital services.
