Coverage gap: Only 30% of 5G-enabled smartphones connects to 5G network in Nigeria

Latest Quality of Experience (QoE) data reveals that about 27% to 31% of capable devices are actually utilising 5G services in Nigeria’s biggest cities. This reveals the existing coverage gap

The quarterly report titled Network Performance by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) revealed that the majority of 5G-enabled devices in Lagos and FCT Abuja keep falling back to lower-speed networks instead of connecting to 5G network. 

Approximately 7 in 10 people who own 5G-enabled smartphones in Lagos and FCT Abuja cannot connect to the 5G network. At such times when the connection stalls, the phone locates the nearest network available (4G or 3G) and stays there. 

The report has again spotlighted a disturbing trend. While Nigerians, like many across Africa, continue to beat the affordability gap by possessing not just smartphones but enabled types (in comparison with recent times), the service quality to enjoy such status is still lagging. 

In addition, the data reveals a critical issue in the Nigerian telecom industry, showing that Nigeria’s rollout remains far behind device readiness and exposes a gap between users’ potential and network availability. 

Recent industry data likewise reveals the struggle of its coverage in Nigeria. Compared with other networks, it has the lowest market share of 4.20%, with 4G holding the highest at 55.76%. While 5G is increasing here, the growth has been slow. 

Also Read: 5G users in Africa to reach 382 million by 2030 up from 54 million – GSMA

5G: When Demand Outweighs Supply

Device manufacturers and consumers are adopting 5G faster than Nigerian operators are deploying it. While the market is ready for adoption, the infrastructure is not keeping pace, exposing a weak supply side relative to demand.

For the industry, a challenge exists. Four years after the first its licence was granted, the coverage gap still stands wide. 

Recall that 5G was first rolled out in Nigeria by MTN in September 2022, with a commercial launch in Lagos and other cities. Airtel joined by launching the network in June 2023, and Mafab Communications launched its services in Abuja and Lagos in January 2023, even though it has yet to commence operation.

In cases where growth is expected, even at the slightest increase, the situation isn’t the same here. The QoE report shows that as of February 2026, the coverage in Lagos and FCT Abuja is at 27.5% and 31.4%, respectively, the same coverage recorded in August 2025. 

However, a complete elimination of 2G and 3G networks has been identified as one of the leading solutions for 5G coverage expansion. Through this, more spectrum space will be available for high-capacity 4G and 5G services. 

Other initiatives include increased infrastructural investment, public-private partnerships, greater focus on critical clusters such as cultural and institutional centres, and tower sharing.

As part of its ongoing effort to bridge the internet connectivity gap, the NCC recently announced plans to use direct satellite-to-phone service to achieve the Spectrum Roadmap for 2026–2030. With the plan, Nigeria is targeting inclusive, high-speed broadband access across urban and rural areas nationwide.