MTN Nigeria has been identified as the leading mobile network provider in rural areas, achieving an average download speed of 15 megabits per second (Mbps), according to a recent study published by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) in collaboration with the network analytics company Ookla.
The publication, titled “The Great Divide: Urban vs. Rural Speeds,” provides an in-depth analysis of mobile internet performance throughout Nigeria, highlighting significant contrasts between urban and rural connectivity. Airtel secured the second position with an average speed of 11Mbps, while Globacom ranked last among the major providers, delivering approximately 9Mbps.
These statistics mark a positive development for the NCC, as rural internet speeds have doubled from 7.5Mbps in January 2025 to 15Mbps by September, reflecting the impact of sustained investment in network infrastructure. Despite this progress, the regulator emphasized that a considerable speed gap persists, with urban regions enjoying speeds that are 5 to 6Mbps faster on average, primarily due to superior coverage and more frequent technological upgrades in metropolitan centers.
Utilizing Ookla’s Analysis and Speedtest (AAS) data, the report segmented Nigeria into urban and rural categories based on population density and user activity. It revealed that while city dwellers can effortlessly stream content, make calls, and utilize online productivity applications, many rural users continue to face challenges with slower upload speeds, hindering their ability to engage fully in digital education and remote work.
From a technological standpoint, 4G LTE remains the predominant and most dependable broadband technology nationwide, a trend projected to persist through 2030. Rural LTE networks have demonstrated the most notable improvements, whereas 5G, offering speeds between 180 and 220Mbps, is still limited to select urban locations. Meanwhile, 3G networks are gradually being phased out due to stagnant performance levels.
The NCC reaffirmed its commitment to narrowing Nigeria’s digital divide by enhancing rural broadband infrastructure and motivating service providers to broaden 4G and 5G coverage. “Our priority is to minimize connectivity disparities and elevate the user experience for all Nigerians,” the commission stated.