Subscribers on the MTN and Airtel networks spent a combined total of N2.53 trillion on voice and data services in the first half of 2025, representing a 50.9 per cent increase from N1.68 trillion recorded in the same period of 2024.
The surge in spending was revealed in the half-year financial results released by both telecom giants, indicating a sharp rise in consumer expenditure on telecommunications. The increase is attributed to recent tariff reviews, rising smartphone adoption, and sustained investment in network infrastructure by Nigeria’s two largest mobile operators.
MTN Nigeria reported generating N2.12 trillion in voice and data revenue between January and June 2025, up 55.7 per cent from N1.36 trillion in the corresponding period last year. Data revenue rose significantly by 69.2 per cent to N1.23 trillion, compared to N727.33 billion in H1 2024, while voice revenue climbed 40.3 per cent year-on-year to N887.13 billion.
MTN linked the growth to strong consumer demand, price adjustments implemented mostly in the second quarter, and continued expansion of its active data user base.
