Galaxy Backbone (GBB), a Nigerian state-owned ICT solutions and products company, announced on Monday, December 2, the signing of a partnership agreement with pan-African digital infrastructure provider WIOCC. The two parties intend to combine their infrastructure strengths to expand broadband access in Nigeria, where the penetration rate stands at 42.27%, according to official data.

Statistics from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) as of the end of October 2024 show that the country has 91.57 million broadband users. Additionally, the number of internet subscribers stands at 134.78 million out of an estimated population of 216 million. The Global Mobile Internet Connectivity Association (GSMA) estimates in its “The State of Mobile Internet Connectivity Report 2024” that 120 million Nigerians do not use the internet at all.

“ This partnership will improve the responsiveness, efficiency and quality of services for businesses and government institutions. It also aims to bridge the digital divide by expanding broadband access in underserved areas and fostering partnerships with Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to boost Nigeria’s digital economy ,” GBB said in a statement.

The partnership between Galaxy Backbone and WIOCC is expected to help expand broadband network coverage in Nigeria. The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) DataHub platform indicates that 3G, 4G and 5G networks cover 89.4%, 84.2% and 11.8% of the Nigerian population respectively.

However, it is important to remember that network expansion does not automatically mean increased adoption of services. Several barriers can hold people back, according to the GSMA. These include lack of awareness of mobile internet, high cost of devices and data, low levels of digital literacy and skills, perceived relevance of services, security concerns, social norms and the user experience offered by connectivity.

Source: Agency EcoFin