Themed “Bridging Digital Frontiers: African Solutions for Universal Connectivity”, the summit is set to be a turning point for addressing the continent’s persistent digital divide.

As a regional segment of the larger IEEE Connecting the Unconnected Europe, Middle East, and Africa (CTUS-EMEA) Summit, CTU Africa 25 will provide a unique platform for stakeholders to collaborate on scalable, inclusive, and context-sensitive connectivity solutions for underserved regions.

Strategic Focus: Eight Tracks for Deep Impact

The summit will cover eight essential thematic tracks, each designed to address core connectivity challenges in Africa:

1. Infrastructure and Technologies for Universal Connectivity
2.  Policy, Regulation, and Sustainable Financing
3. Rural and Community-Centric Connectivity Innovations
4. Digital Transformation: Smart Cities, Education, Health, Agriculture Smart cities enabling massive connectivity
5. Regional Cooperation: One Africa Network and Cross-Border Initiatives
6. Sustainable Power & Energy for Connected Communities
7. People, Policy, and Sustainability
8. Cybersecurity, Data Protection, and Critical Infrastructure

These tracks bring together engineers, policymakers, researchers, regulators, and business leaders to tackle connectivity from every possible angle.

Why CTU Africa 25 Matters to Nigeria’s Telecom Sector

With 2.9 billion people globally still unconnected, many of them in Africa, the summit is of enormous strategic importance to Nigerian Internet service providers (ISPs), telecom operators, ICT entrepreneurs, and policy leaders.

For ISPs and telecom operators, CTU Africa 25 offers:

• Business expansion insights into connecting rural and underserved areas
• Access to cutting-edge solutions to reduce infrastructure costs and improve coverage
• Policy dialogue opportunities with regulators and funding partners
• Networking with international and local innovators for collaborative ventures
• Showcasing of local innovations to a global audience
• Participation in regulatory and standards discussions shaping the next decade of connectivity

Empowering Communities Through Digital Access

Connectivity isn’t just about browsing the internet, it’s about livelihoods, education, health, and gender equality.

For instance:

• In many African countries, women are 30-50% less likely than men to access the internet.
• In Sub-Saharan Africa, 1GB of data can cost up to 40% of the average monthly income.
• Lack of internet hinders access to e-learning, telemedicine, online markets, and precision farming.

By increasing connectivity, Nigeria can unlock GDP growth, digital entrepreneurship, and social inclusion, especially in rural and underserved communities.

IEEE’s Global Mission Comes to Nigeria

Founded in 1884, IEEE is the world’s largest technical professional organization, advancing technology globally.

In Nigeria, IEEE has been active since 1976, with a strong local chapter comprising engineers, technologists, academics, and students.

CTU Africa 25 will host the final presentations of the IEEE Connecting the Unconnected Challenge, where innovative, practical solutions will be showcased.

The event will also feature thought leaders from regulatory bodies, NGOs, industry, and academia, all aligned around the shared mission to close the digital gap.

IEEE Connecting the Unconnected Africa Summit – Opening Doors for Nigeria’s Next-Gen Innovators

In addition to ICT professionals and business leaders, CTU Africa 25 will open its doors to students from tertiary institutions across Nigeria, offering them exposure to global trends and opportunities in digital innovation.

A Call to Action for Nigerian Stakeholders

As Nigeria prepares to host this landmark event, telecom operators, ISPs, policy makers, and technology innovators are encouraged to:

• Participate actively in the summit sessions
• Showcase Nigerian connectivity innovations
• Explore partnerships and investment opportunities
• Engage with regulatory and funding bodies on sustainable connectivity models

This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to shape the future of Nigeria’s, and Africa’s, digital landscape.

In this space, companies like MainOne (now Equinix), Rack Centre, and WIOCC through its Open Access Data Centres (OADC), are investing heavily to strengthen Nigeria’s digital backbone. 

But which of them is best positioned to ensure growth across the Nigerian startups sector?

MainOne (Equinix): The Global Reach & Certification Anchor

MainOne has leveraged its submarine cable system, fibre optic network, and its acquisition by Equinix to offer reach and certified reliability. Its data centre arm, MDXi, holds the Uptime Institute Tier III Constructed Facility certification (TCCF), among several other certifications (PCI-DSS, SAP Infrastructure Services, ISO 27001 & 9001). 

Its Network Connect and Cloud Connect services link local branches or clouds with global infrastructure. For example, by routing traffic via its submarine cable and leveraging Equinix Fabric, it offers predictable performance and connectivity from Lagos to key global hubs.

Power reliability, a common pain point in Nigeria, is one of MainOne’s standout strengths. Its Lagos data centre integrates multiple power redundancies, utility partnerships, and high-capacity generators to maintain near-continuous uptime. That’s essential for startups whose businesses can’t afford downtime.

Still, MainOne’s premium-grade services usually come at higher prices. For small or growing startups, that might make it more suitable at later stages of expansion rather than at the beginning.

So, MainOne offers scale, high certifications, international interconnect, and relatively lower risk from interruptions.

Rack Centre: The Nimble, Neutral & Efficiency-Driven Option

Rack Centre carved its reputation as Nigeria’s first carrier-neutral Tier III certified data centre. Unlike most competitors, it is not owned by any telecom or internet provider, which gives clients the flexibility to interconnect with over 70 different carriers and ISPs. That neutrality is one of its biggest competitive edges.

Its location in Oregun, Lagos, provides direct access to all the major undersea cables serving Nigeria, including WACS, MainOne, Glo-1, SAT-3 and ACE. The result is low latency, strong redundancy, and smooth interconnection between local networks.

Rack Centre’s new LGS2 facility represents a huge step forward. The 12MW hyperscale and AI-ready centre is designed for exceptional energy efficiency and sustainability, with advanced cooling systems and a lower Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) ratio. This reduces operational costs and aligns with global sustainability standards, an important factor for modern tech companies.

Its approach appeals particularly to startups seeking flexibility, local performance, and freedom from vendor lock-ins. However, Rack Centre’s challenge is scale: it has a solid local presence but lacks the global integration that Equinix offers through MainOne.

One of its strongest propositions is neutrality: Rack Centre is not owned by a telco, ISP or cloud provider; it does not compete with its tenants; therefore, there is less risk of vendor lock-in or conflict. 

For startups, especially those scaling fast, Rack Centre tends to offer strong locality benefits: low latency within Nigeria, strong peering via IXPN, predictable interconnects, and usually more flexible arrangements for rack space or interconnection.

WIOCC / OADC: The Pan-African Connector, Big Capacity Incoming

WIOCC, via its Open Access Data Centres (OADC) arm, is scaling aggressively. Its strategy is open access, hyperscale capacity, and linking regional networks. 

OADC’s expansion plan is one of the biggest in the sector. The company has committed over $240 million to expand its Lagos data centre to 24 megawatts by 2027, starting with a 12MW first phase. The facility is designed to support cloud providers, hyperscale clients, and growing tech firms that need capacity and cross-border connectivity.

WIOCC also launched OAfabric, its cloud interconnection platform, which allows businesses to connect directly to international cloud services through a simplified interface. Combined with its wide fibre and submarine network, it aims to provide both affordability and regional reach.

That said, OADC’s infrastructure in Nigeria is still relatively new, with much of its full capacity under development. The scale and potential are enormous, but the market will need to see consistent delivery over time.

Its strength is scale (once the full capacity is live), strong peering potential across borders, and an open access model that benefits ISPs, cloud providers and telcos who need wholesale connectivity.

Comparing Strengths and Trade-offs

Each company brings something unique to Nigeria’s digital economy. MainOne is on top when it comes to global integration and enterprise-grade reliability, backed by Equinix’s global standards. For Rack Centre, it’s in neutrality, local performance, and energy efficiency, making it ideal for startups prioritising flexibility and cost control. WIOCC, meanwhile, is building a network that could redefine cross-border connectivity and scale for Africa’s data economy once fully realised.

In terms of reliability, both MainOne and Rack Centre already provide strong uptime backed by Tier III certifications. MainOne’s international connectivity gives it an advantage for startups with global vision. Rack Centre provides a more accessible, locally optimised alternative for startups that value independence and direct peering with multiple providers. WIOCC is the long-term investment, its pan-African fibre network and future 24MW capacity could make it the infrastructure giant to watch.

What I Think Startups Should Care About Most

If I were advising a startup today, I would tell them:

• Get your foundation right: data sovereignty, uptime, and latency are not optional. Pick a provider with strong certifications and multiple power/fibre redundancy.
• Think about the cost-to-scale: what looks affordable at 10 racks may be expensive at 100. Check how interconnect charges, cross-connects, and peering fees scale.
• Be wary of lock-in. Providers that are carrier-neutral and open access give more flexibility to mix and match cloud, network, and hosting providers.
• Monitor sustainability and total cost of ownership. Facilities that waste energy or have unreliable back-up power may cost more when things go wrong.

Who’s Best Positioned?

Each of these providers has a part. If I had to pick:

• For startups already serving international customers or aiming to scale globally, MainOne/Equinix remains ahead because of its global interconnection, submarine cable reach, and certifications.
• For startups focused on Nigeria or nearby countries and needing lower latency, predictable interconnect and flexible arrangements, Rack Centre looks like a strong option.
• For companies needing wholesale capacity, cross-border reach, or anticipating rapid growth in cloud usage, WIOCC/OADC will likely pull ahead once their full capacity is available and stable.

In short: there is no single perfect choice. But the competition among these three is powerful for our ecosystem. Startups will benefit as they force better reliability, lower prices, and greater innovation. And I’m positive the fate of Nigerian startups looks brighter if we build this backbone well.

Speaking on the topic; “Rewriting the Digital Playbook: The Rise of Broadband as a Tech Game Changer”, Ore who spoke through Yinka Isioye, the company’s chief experience officer, at the Titans of Tech Conference 2025 in Lagos, described broadband as “as essential as oxygen” and a critical enabler of modern digital economies, impacting sectors such as education, healthcare, fintech, SMEs, and smart cities.

“Over 60% of Nigerians and more than 70% of Africans still lack reliable broadband access. This exclusion is costing us dearly, in GDP, innovation, jobs, and human potential,” Ore said.

Ore shared a personal anecdote about missing a life-changing opportunity due to poor internet, underscoring the real-world impact of limited connectivity. He pointed out that Nigeria’s internet speeds are 5–10 times slower and up to 4 times more expensive per Mbps compared to developed markets.

Citing the World Bank, he emphasized that a 10% increase in broadband penetration can boost GDP by 1.4% in developed nations. For Nigeria, a 30% increase in broadband coverage could unlock at least $19 billion in value, with a possible GDP multiplier effect of over $45 billion annually.

“The $15 billion we lose yearly due to the broadband gap is nearly four times the nation’s combined health and education budgets,” he said. “That’s equivalent to the yearly federal allocation of an entire state.”

Barriers to Broadband Growth

Ore outlined the challenges stifling broadband expansion as exorbitant fiber rollout costs of $30,000–$50,000 per km due to civil works, RoW charges, security and local levies; unstable power supply, with up to 40% of ISP OPEX going into diesel and alternative energy, and low Average Revenue Per User (ARPU), $10–$20 in Nigeria versus $50 in developed markets, making ROI timelines less attractive to investors.

Despite the hurdles, he praised ISPs and MNOs for continued innovation and investment, and acknowledged government efforts led by President Bola Tinubu and Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, in steering Nigeria toward a digital-first economy.

Ore proposed several bold strategies to close the gap such as mobilizing pension funds and local capital for long-term broadband infrastructure financing; encouraging shared rural fiber consortia and MNO/ISP resource pooling, and promoting community networks, solar-powered micro base stations, and MVNOs for rural delivery.

“Launch ‘Broadband for Jobs’ schemes, offering tax incentives to ISPs delivering discounted access to unemployed youths undergoing digital skills training.

“Broadband is not just about cables; it’s about life-changing connectivity. It empowers education, innovation, inclusion, and national transformation,” Ore concluded.

In his opening address, Don Pedro Aganbi, convener of the Titans of Tech Conference, emphasized the event’s mission as a convergence of government, innovators, and private sector leaders.

“Our goal is to create a platform where policies meet practical insights, and where bold ideas about shaping Nigeria’s digital future can thrive,” Aganbi said.

He described this year’s theme, “Game Changers: Shaping the Future of Technology”, as a call to action for those daring enough to disrupt norms, reimagine solutions, and accelerate Nigeria’s digital transformation journey.

Let’s take a look at some companies in charge of this space; FibreOne and Spectranet, two giants of Nigeria’s ISP sector with radically different philosophies. 

One is building a fixed fibre network from the ground up, the other is surfing the LTE airwaves with mobile routers and data caps. But when we stripped away the marketing tactics and looked at the real numbers, the gap was startling.

By Q1 2025, FibreOne’s subscriber base had plummeted by 42.4%, down from 33,010 to just 19,000, a collapse that says even fibre fans are switching lanes. 

Meanwhile, Spectranet tried to hold its ground with over 103,000 active users, barely flinching with a 2% dip. FibreOne claims to have bounced back to over 60,000 subscribers by June, but the damage to confidence, and public perception, may take longer to repair.

Beyond a product comparison, this is a clash of philosophies. Do you want unthrottled speed in a few neighbourhoods, or portable flexibility that slows down the more you use it? It’s not limited to who’s faster, but who’s failing you less.

Market Footprint and Subscriber Strength

Let’s start with reach, because where you live still determines the kind of internet you get.

FibreOne, Nigeria’s largest fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) provider, operates in just 12 Points of Presence (POP)—mainly in high-density zones of Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Ilorin. 

As of Q1 2025, its NCC-reported subscriber base dropped by 42.4%, from 33,010 to 19,000, largely due to economic challenges and high competition from mobile broadband. 

However, internal sources reveal a strong rebound, pushing active subscribers back up to 60,000+ by the end of June 2025.

By contrast, Spectranet tops the wireless broadband market, operating in 641 POPs and maintaining a subscriber base of 103,252, the largest among ISPs in Nigeria. 

Its model thrives on mobility and 4G LTE flexibility, although it also reports a minor 2.08% dip in active users from the previous quarter. While FibreOne fights for the top spot in fibre-rich urban pockets, Spectranet wins on footprint and presence.

Technology and Infrastructure

FibreOne runs exclusively on optical fibre, delivering high-capacity FTTH connectivity. This enables users to enjoy unthrottled, low-latency internet, a major edge for gamers, streamers, remote workers, and SMEs. It is not mobile, but it’s powerful where available.

Spectranet takes a different approach. Its 4G LTE service offers plug-and-play internet via MiFi, routers, car Wi-Fi, and outdoor modems. While speed depends on network congestion and signal strength, the ease of setup and wide range of devices make it ideal for people who are always on the move—or outside fibre coverage zones.

Bottom line?

• FibreOne offers speed and stability.
• Spectranet delivers flexibility and convenience.
  Your needs define your winner here.

Speed, Performance and Data Integrity

On pure performance, FibreOne takes the lead. Users frequently commend its consistent speeds, especially for data-intensive tasks. Its infrastructure supports up to 500 Mbps, truly unlimited with zero data caps or throttling.

Spectranet, though versatile, enforces a Fair Usage Policy (FUP). Speeds are reduced after data thresholds, typically 125GB, with post-FUP speeds dropping to 512kbps. This can be frustrating for users who consume large volumes of data.

Still, Spectranet performs respectably in urban areas, particularly where fibre has not yet reached. However, speed is dependent on environmental factors: weather, congestion, and signal strength.

Pricing and Affordability

Let’s talk naira and kobo.

• FibreOne plans start from ₦13,807/month for 25 Mbps. These are truly unlimited, no throttling or surprises. It’s best for homes or offices with multiple heavy users.
• Spectranet’s plans begin around ₦18,999/month, but include data caps. Once you hit the FUP limit, your browsing speed slows significantly. However, its flexible device options, MiFis, routers, car Wi-Fi, offer portability.

For users who want predictability and value, FibreOne’s pricing wins. For those who need on-the-go access, Spectranet’s hardware options justify the price.

Customer Service and User Experience

Neither brand is perfect here.

FibreOne earns applaud for its installation professionalism and consistent speeds. However, many users complain about slow customer support, installation delays, and infrastructure-related outages. Accusations of unfulfilled promises have dented its integrity in certain circles.

Spectranet, on the other hand, gets high marks for device support, service availability, and customer experience within LTE zones. Yet, it also faces complaint, mostly for its speed throttling and lack of transparency around FUP limits.

FibreOne ranked #1 in customer satisfaction in the 2024 NCSI survey, while Spectranet swept awards for “Most Reliable ISP” and “User-Friendly Brand” at NiTA 2024. In essence, users trust FibreOne’s speed, but expect better service. Spectranet users expect average speed, but trust the experience.

Value-Added Services and Differentiators

Spectranet’s strength is variety:

• MiFi devices for mobile users
• CarFi for internet on the go
• Home routers and VoLTE combos
• Parental controls, URL filters, and app-based monitoring

FibreOne’s value lies in infrastructure:

• Unlimited fibre plans (25–500 Mbps)
• Custom SME and enterprise packages with SLAs
• On-site installation, premium support
• Future-ready for 4K streaming, low-latency gaming, and remote work

If you value hardware-based mobility, Spectranet gives you the tools. If you value performance and depth, FibreOne is the infrastructure play.

Reputation, Recognition, and Resilience

FibreOne was recognised by the NCC in Q4 2023 as Nigeria’s top FTTH provider, featured at GITEX Africa 2025, and commended for supporting the 3MTT initiative. However, its Q1 2025 subscriber decline led to questions about long-term sustainability in the face of mobile broadband competition.

Spectranet, meanwhile, wears its awards like armour. From ISP of the Year (2025) to Broadband Leader and Most Reliable ISP, its reputation is market-tested and customer-backed. It has scaled by being agile, reliable, and affordable for a wider audience.

Summary: Side-by-Side Comparison

So… FibreOne or Spectranet?

If you need unlimited, stable, high-speed internet for work, business, or entertainment, and you live in one of the covered zones, FibreOne is the clear winner. It’s fast, cost-effective, and future-ready.

But if you need flexible, portable internet access with a variety of device options and broader national reach, Spectranet remains a reliable alternative, just watch your data consumption.

In the end, both providers are fighting different battles in the same war: FibreOne is building the roads, Spectranet is selling the cars. Your choice depends on what kind of journey you’re on.

New data from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) shows that 38 ISPs lost over 18,000 customers between Q3 2024 and Q1 2025, revealing the high cost pressures on households and businesses.

Starlink, the second-largest ISP in Nigeria and widely considered a premium option, suffered a significant drop. Its customer base fell by over 6,000; from 65,564 to 59,509. 

Spectranet, the oldest and largest in the sector, shed 2,189 subscribers, while FibreOne, once the third-biggest ISP by user count, recorded the steepest fall, losing more than 14,000 customers.

These numbers may look small in isolation, but in the bigger market space, they reveal a shrinking space for ISPs. 

While ISPs serve fewer than 300,000 users collectively, Nigeria’s mobile network operators (MNOs), MTN, Airtel, Globacom, and 9mobile, command over 141 million active internet subscriptions. That’s more than 99.8% of the market, and the gap is widening.

Why are users walking away? One clear reason is expenses. In February, the NCC approved a 50% increase in voice and data tariffs across all operators. Starlink soon followed, raising its monthly price from ₦38,000 to ₦57,000 by April. 

In contrast, broadband plans from mobile networks remained relatively affordable, making it a no-brainer for many to switch.

Jide Awe, a technology policy expert and founder of Jidaw.com, links the decline directly to the economic challenges. He told Nairametrics that “The rising costs of data, equipment, and power supply mean many families and small businesses have to cut costs and focus strictly on essentials. Maintaining subscriptions isn’t as much of a priority for many. Starlink, in particular, is more expensive in terms of device and subscription costs.”

Beyond price, MNOs have now muscled into the fibre broadband space, once a core domain for fixed-line ISPs. MTN and Airtel, for instance, are aggressively rolling out Fibre to the Home (FTTH) services, directly competing with traditional ISPs, and with more resources and deeper infrastructure reach.

“I don’t think this is fair to the smaller operators (the ISPs),” said Tony Emoekpere, President of the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON). He also pointed to the tariff hike and the massive disparity in market share as additional issues.

It’s not just competition or cost. Operational realities are difficult for ISPs. Running diesel-powered infrastructure in a country with unstable power supply eats into profits. International bandwidth is so expensive, Right of Way (RoW) fees and multiple taxes in different states further drain resources. Urban areas suffer frequent cable vandalism and theft, slowing down service and customer confidence.

Of the 234 licensed ISPs in Nigeria, only 127 had any active users in Q1 2025. Many operate in survival mode, with no clear path to scale. Meanwhile, mobile networks are doing better, buoyed by reach, convenience, and price flexibility.

So what’s next for ISPs?

Awe believes the current model has run its course. “The ISPs should explore the provision of tailored services for SMEs, real estate, health, and education. With strategic planning, they can further digital transformation within sectors and across industries. In this regard, it is advisable to collaborate with agile, tech-savvy SMEs and startups to drive innovation.”

He also advises them to adopt bundled service models and reduce operating costs by investing in solar energy and local alternatives. Improving customer service, reliability, and delivering niche solutions could also help claw back market relevance.

But beyond business tweaks, many operators say the rules of the game need to change. NCC and policymakers need to create a level playing field that doesn’t leave fixed ISPs to fend for themselves against the Goliaths of the telecom industry.

Without regulatory support and an updated broadband strategy, Nigeria could end up with fewer ISPs, and even fewer real broadband choices.

The election is set to take place on June 23, 2025, in Mauritius.

AFRINIC, as the Regional Internet Registry (RIR) for Africa and the Indian Ocean region, plays a crucial role in the distribution and management of vital Internet number resources, such as IP addresses and Autonomous System Numbers.

Adebayo’s bid for a board position underscores Nigeria’s growing influence and commitment to the continent’s digital future.

Williams Adebayo, a freelance tech and sales consultant, brings a formidable background in business development, sales strategy, and high-level stakeholder engagement.

His professional journey spans the ICT, fintech, FMCG, and telecommunications sectors, providing him with a holistic understanding of market dynamics and digital transformation.

Seeking support and votes from members across the African continent, Adebayo said his motivation to vie for the AFRINIC board seat stems from a passion for leveraging technology to empower businesses, enhance digital equity, and foster sustainable development across the region.

“My commitment to advancing Africa’s internet ecosystem through strategic partnerships and policy advocacy has spurred me to go serve at the continental level,” he stated, hoping that his fluency in English and Yoruba is expected to be a significant asset in bridging communication gaps across diverse multicultural environments”.

In his current capacity, Adebayo manages crucial client relations with Internet Service Providers (ISPs), ensures AFRINIC compliance, and facilitates seminars aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s Internet infrastructure. His strategic outreach has reportedly “significantly enhanced the Africa regional footprint.”

Before his current role, Adebayo held pivotal positions that shaped his diverse skill set. As Territory Sales Manager at Ringo Telecommunication (an MTN Partner), he consistently drove revenue growth in broadband and mobile financial services. His leadership as Business Development Manager at Global Plus Group and National Sales/Marketing Manager at Lantern Books Publishers showcased his acumen in team leadership, digital marketing optimization, and brand awareness.

Earlier roles at E-Tranzact International Plc (fintech) and Procter & Gamble (FMCG) further honed his expertise in sales execution and distributor management.

Academically, Adebayo holds a BSc in Business Administration and an MBA in Marketing, complemented by certifications in Marketing Analytics, Retail Management, and Customer Service.

His proficiency in CRM tools, Microsoft 365, and project management, combined with his analytical rigor and interpersonal finesse, positions him as a strong candidate to deliver impactful results on the AFRINIC board.

A member of the Institute of Corporate and Business Affairs Management, Adebayo’s dedication to innovation and his extensive experience across the digital landscape make him a compelling advocate for the digital and economic advancement of West Africa and the broader African continent.

His potential election to the AFRINIC board could significantly bolster efforts to ensure the equitable and sustainable growth of internet resources across the region.

This decisive action, according to a statement available to Techeconomy  jointly signed by Mr. Chike Maduekwe, executive chairman/MD, ANSPPB, and Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata, MD/CEO, Anambra State ICT Agency, follows numerous reports of illegal road and sidewalk excavations, as well as the unauthorized erection of poles defacing our environment.

The State Reads:

“Investigations have since revealed that several ISPs have been operating without the required submission of deployment plans and approvals. These illegal operations pose serious risks, including data breaches, poor service quality, and the defacement of public infrastructure.

“Left unchecked, such activities not only compromise residents’ safety but also undermine legitimate ISPs who are registered with the Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC) and are prepared to follow due process to provide reliable services.

“The objective of this crackdown is to sanitize the state’s digital landscape by ensuring that only properly registered and certified ISPs are allowed to operate in the State.

“This initiative is part of the broader vision of the Soludo-led administration to promote responsible technology use for the collective good.

“Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious or unlicensed ISP activity by calling the dedicated hotline: 02014143039

Commenting on the development, Mr. Chike Maduekwe, the executive chairman/managing director of ANSPPB, stated:

“This isn’t about shutting anyone out. It’s about ensuring everyone plays by the rules.

“If you want to offer internet services in Anambra, go through the proper channels. We will support those doing the right thing, but we will not fold our arms and watch people cut corners.” Maduekwe concluded.

Also speaking, Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata, managing director/CEO of the Anambra State ICT Agency, emphasized:

“The Internet is no longer a luxury, it’s a necessity. Mr Governor announced and implemented zero right of way policy as a way of encouraging more players and deepening access, however, it is important to state that the first point of call for any interested player are the relevant agencies so that the State is aware of what is being deployed.

“This is because our people deserve services from providers they can trust. We are  committed to protecting our citizens while enabling fair competition in the tech ecosystem.” Agbata concluded.

The Anambra State Government remains resolute in fostering a safe, fair, and well-regulated digital economy, one where residents can enjoy reliable internet services without fear of exploitation or compromise.

“Let’s all work together to safeguard Anambra’s digital future”, the statement concludes.

The Internet Exchange Point of Nigeria (IXPN) confirmed this milestone, reiterating the country’s goal to localise digital infrastructure and reduce reliance on foreign bandwidth.

At 1Tbps, the speed and volume of internet traffic handled locally in Nigeria have grown to the level where over a million Zoom calls could run at once without issues. It also means that around 200,000 users could stream high-definition Nollywood films at the same time without any buffering.

IXPN’s Chief Executive Officer, Muhammed Rudman, described the achievement as a huge one. “For Nigeria, hitting this milestone means reducing reliance on international bandwidth, decreasing latency for local services, and strengthening our position as Africa’s digital heartbeat. This milestone is a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of a faster, more connected Nigeria.”

This means more data now moves within Nigeria, handled by domestic infrastructure. This also comes with real financial and functional benefits. Service providers no longer need to depend so heavily on international cables or foreign data centres, which means fewer costs and less vulnerability when external connections break down.

Again, Nigerian businesses could save millions of dollars annually by exchanging traffic locally. That’s money that can now be redirected towards building better services or expanding digital capacity. And users? They get faster connections, smoother experiences on fintech apps, and better results when attending virtual classes or meetings.

Not just tech firms will benefit, banks, e-commerce platforms, schools, hospitals and any service that requires a steady internet will find stability in this. 

Rudman pointed out that strengthening local infrastructure doesn’t just improve quality of service; it also provides insurance against global internet disruptions.

Years of steady growth in local traffic contributed to this. Surveys among IXPN members show that some now keep up to 70% of their internet traffic within Nigerian borders. That’s a sharp contrast to just a few years ago, when the bulk of data had to travel across the world and back, introducing delays and extra costs.

Raphael Iloka, the organisation’s marketing manager, noted the human side of this transformation. “As more content providers, ISPs, banks, and public institutions localize their traffic through the IXP, end users benefit directly. We’re not just routing data, we’re building the foundation for Nigeria’s digital economy.”

IXPN is the country’s largest Internet Exchange Point and serves as a key node for West African connectivity. Over 130 organisations are already linked through its network, including giants like Google, Microsoft, Amazon, and TikTok, alongside Nigeria’s mobile network operators.

Its reach goes beyond Lagos, IXPN has active exchange points in Abuja, Port Harcourt, Kano, Enugu, Delta, and Gombe. More are on the way. The organisation has plans to establish additional PoPs across the country by 2025, attract more content providers, and deploy technologies like caching to help platforms run more efficiently.

These initiatives have also earned IXPN recognition globally. It now operates as a MANRS-compliant exchange point, a standard that signals secure and trustworthy internet routing.

This progress is not accidental. It comes from deliberate investment, better collaboration among service providers, and an understanding that Nigeria can’t afford to outsource its internet forever, and so, the traffic growth is commendable.

According to the latest data from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) for Q4 2024, Starlink now has 65,564 active subscribers, overtaking FiberOne, which recorded 33,010 subscribers.

Since it entered the Nigerian market in early 2023, Starlink has been growing fast, offering high-speed satellite-based broadband to users in both urban and underserved rural areas. 

Unlike traditional ISPs reliant on fibre optics and wireless networks, Starlink’s low-Earth orbit satellite technology provides nationwide coverage, including remote locations where other providers struggle with connectivity issues.

Even with its premium pricing, Starlink’s user base more than doubled within a year, increasing from 23,897 subscribers in 2023 to 65,564 by the end of 2024. 

This surge points to the level of demand for high-speed, reliable connectivity, particularly in areas underserved by traditional ISPs. 

Starlink offers speeds of up to 250 Mbps, far outpacing the offerings of most local ISPs that rely on fibre optics and wireless networks.

Spectranet, which operates on fibre and terrestrial wireless networks, is Nigeria’s largest ISP with 105,441 subscribers, despite losing 8,428 users over the past year. 

Its subscriber base declined from 113,869 at the end of 2023 to 105,441 in Q3 2024, with no further changes in Q4. 

Unlike Starlink’s satellite-based model, Spectranet and other traditional ISPs must pay right-of-way fees, tower installations, and power infrastructure costs, making expansion slower and more expensive.

Other ISPs in Nigeria include Tizeti Networks, with 18,881 subscribers; ipNX Nigeria, serving 16,166 subscribers; and VDT Communications, catering to 6,307 subscribers.

Starlink’s success comes as consumer complaints about the poor internet quality provided by mobile network operators and ISPs are on the high side.

Unlike its competitors, Starlink expands its satellite network globally, improving speeds, reducing latency, and enhancing service reliability. As of February 2025, SpaceX had launched 8,039 Starlink satellites, with 7,082 still in orbit and 7,049 fully operational.

“As far as them (Starlink) being the second-largest ISP now, it makes sense,” said Ladi Okuneye, CEO of UniCloud, an ISP. “Satellite technology’s ubiquitous nature means you can connect a customer today in Ikoyi and another in Ikot Ekpene without being restricted by the geographical limitations of fibre or terrestrial wireless solutions.”

While MTN Nigeria is still at the top in the broadband space, the emergence of Starlink as the second-largest ISP shows a change in consumer preference, particularly for users seeking fast and reliable internet access without the infrastructure limitations of terrestrial networks.

In December 2024, Starlink announced a steep price hike, doubling its monthly subscription fee from ₦38,000 to ₦75,000 for new customers. Existing users were expected to transition to the new pricing by January 27, 2025. However, due to surging demand, Starlink put the tariff adjustment on hold.

This wasn’t the first time Starlink faced pricing challenges in Nigeria. In October 2024, the NCC blocked a previous attempt to raise tariffs, saying the company had not followed the proper regulatory procedures. 

The NCC later approved the hike on February 4, 2025, allowing telecom operators to adjust their prices. However, while MTN Nigeria, Airtel Nigeria, and Smile Communications have increased their prices, Starlink has yet to implement the increase.

Despite its growth, Starlink still faces limitations. Currently, subscribers can only use the service in a fixed location, which means mobile users cannot stay connected on the move. In 2024, Starlink began rolling out satellite-to-phone connectivity to eliminate mobile dead zones, but this service has not yet reached Africa.

The adoption of Starlink accentuates a growing demand for premium, high-speed internet services in Nigeria. While traditional ISPs continue to invest in expanding their fibre infrastructure, Starlink’s satellite model offers a flexible alternative, particularly in regions where fibre rollout is slow or economically unfeasible.

However, affordability is still a critical challenge—Starlink’s service, priced at over ₦400,000 for the hardware and a monthly subscription fee that could rise to ₦75,000, is way higher than traditional ISPs. This has limited its adoption to high-income users, businesses, and remote areas where alternatives are scarce.

While two new companies—Sulfman Consulting Ltd. and NGCOM Lastmile Solution Ltd.—received ISP licenses on July 1, twelve other ISPs surrendered their licenses in June.

The ISP sector is being limited by factors such as anti-competitive practices, insufficient spectrum, high bandwidth costs, expensive Right of Way, and poor corporate governance have contributed to this decline.

Top 10 Internet Service Providers in Nigeria by Active Subscribers

Again, the rollout of 5G by major mobile operators like MTN and Airtel has prompted some enterprise customers to switch to 5G routers, further impacting traditional ISPs.

The industry regulator, the NCC, seems concerned over the declining number of ISPs and has pointed out that many have opted not to renew their licenses.

This trend is not new; around March 2022, 568 licensed ISPs become inactive. The issue of non-renewal has been attributed to competitive pressures and unfavourable regulatory conditions.

Biodun Omoniyi, CEO of VDT Communications Limited, one of Nigeria’s leading internet service providers, has called for government intervention to support the ISP sector.

He noted that ISPs, mostly small and medium enterprises (SMEs), are essential for achieving the goals outlined in the National Broadband Plan 2020-2025.

Omoniyi pleas for regulatory adjustments that would better support smaller ISPs and prevent the market from becoming monopolized by larger mobile network operators (MNOs).

Despite the challenges, internet service providers remain vital in extending internet services to underserved areas. However, the supremacy of MNOs like MTN, Airtel, Globacom, and 9mobile, which collectively had 163.8 million active internet subscriptions in Q1 2024, is a huge competition.

NCC Statistics: Starlink Records Over 11,000 Customers in Nine Months

In contrast, the leading ISPs had a combined total of 262,206 active customers during the same period.

The recent NCC study states that to sustain ISPs, there may need to be a regulated increase in data prices, as the current market conditions have led to artificially low data prices due to intense competition.

This measure could help ensure the survival and growth of smaller ISPs, enabling them to continue contributing to Nigeria’s digital infrastructure.