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Mobile performance in Nigeria: A significant improvement driven by 4G
The latest data from nPerf reveal a marked improvement in mobile performance in Nigeria between Q1 2023 and Q4 2025, driven using 4G.
Nigeria’s mobile network performance is undergoing a major transformation, with 4G technology delivering substantial improvements in speed and reliability. Data from nPerf highlights a significant leap, as average download speeds more than doubled from 7.1 Mbps in Q1 2023 to 14.7 Mbps in Q4 2025. Upload speeds saw an even greater boost, increasing over fourfold from 1.77 Mbps to 7.28 Mbps in the same period.
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This enhancement in mobile performance arrives alongside explosive growth in data consumption. According to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), mobile data traffic surged by 140% between January 2023 and November 2025, rising from 518,000 terabits to over 1.23 million terabits. This dramatic increase, fueled by the widespread adoption of digital services, underscores the critical role of robust 4G infrastructure in supporting Nigeria’s expanding digital economy.
An accelerated technological transition
The performance gains observed by nPerf are primarily driven by the widespread adoption of 4G.
Tests conducted in 4G on the networks of MTN, Airtel and Globacom now account for 64% of measurements, compared with 49% in 2022. Operators play a central role in this transition through sustained investments in the expansion and modernization of their networks, notably through partnerships such as the one established between MTN and Airtel to improve coverage in rural areas.
New use cases enabled by improved speeds
The significant increase in mobile speeds over the past year in Nigeria opens the door to new use cases and opportunities for users, such as participating in videoconferences, carrying out online financial transactions, or watching movies and series on streaming platforms with relatively smooth playback.
Evolution of mobile network speeds in Nigeria from January 2023 to November 2025.
Despite these speed increases paving the way for an improved online experience, the streaming performance measured by nPerf has not improved, and further efforts are still required from operators to enhance performance, for example by improving network densification, increasing interconnections, or deploying more YouTube cache servers within the country.
Mobile streaming performance in Nigeria from January 2023 to November 2025.
The nPerf application allows users to measure mobile connection performance on Android and iOS devices. By assessing download and upload speeds, it helps users better understand the quality of their connection, whether for watching a movie via streaming or making a video call.
Still fragile accessibility
In November 2025, Nigeria reached a broadband penetration rate of 50.58%, thereby exceeding the initial target of 50% set for 2025. However, disparities between urban and rural areas persist, and digital inclusion remains a major challenge. Operators and the government continue to work on solutions to expand 4G and 5G coverage, while improving the accessibility and resilience of these infrastructures.
