Telecom
Ericsson Mobility Report: Mobile Data Traffic in Sub-Saharan Africa to Grow by 6.5 times by 2026

The November 2020 edition of the Ericsson Mobility Report reveals that mobile data traffic in Sub-Saharan Africa is estimated to grow by almost 6.5 times the current figures, with total traffic increasing from 0.87EB per month in 2020 to 5.6EB by 2026. Meanwhile, average traffic per smartphone is expected to reach 8.9GB over the forecast period.

As the demand for capacity and coverage of cellular networks continues to grow, service providers are expected to continue investing in their networks to cater for this uptake and meet evolving consumer requirements.
In Sub-Saharan Africa, mobile subscriptions will continue to grow over the forecast period as mobile penetration today, at 84 percent, is less than the global average. LTE is estimated to account for around 15 percent of subscriptions by the end of 2020.
The Mobility Report reiterates the importance of releasing more spectrum in Africa to expand coverage, improve network quality and encourage mobile adoption.
Fadi Pharaon, President of Ericsson Middle East and Africa says: “This latest edition of our Mobility Report highlights the fundamental need for good connectivity as a cornerstone to cater for this uptake as the demand for capacity and coverage of cellular networks continues to grow across Africa.
“Investing in network infrastructure and optimizing spectrum assignments to deliver expansive 4G connectivity, paving the way for 5G, are critical requirements to consider in this journey and to accelerate digital transformation across the continent.
“We will continue to invest in our technology leadership and offer our state-of-the art infrastructure solutions to help our customers seize the opportunities that connectivity will bring to Africa.”
Over the forecast period, mobile broadband subscriptions in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) are predicted to increase, reaching 76 percent of mobile subscriptions.
Driving factors behind the growth of mobile broadband subscriptions include a young, growing population with increasing digital skills and more affordable smartphones. Over the forecast period, distinct volumes of 5G subscriptions are expected from 2022, reaching 5 percent in 2026.
While 5G and LTE subscriptions will continue to grow over the next 6 years, High Speed Packet Access (HSPA) will remain the dominant technology in SSA with a share of over 40 percent in 2026.
Service providers compete with distinct strategies
Within Africa, offering-led is the most common strategy, frequently offering a wide range of services linked to mobile subscriptions such as gaming, mobile banking and insurance. A look at service offerings reveals that offering-led service providers tend to couple network performance with specific use cases and end-user expectations, like promoting the best network for video streaming.
The offering-led strategy is mostly deployed by challengers. The ambition is to be first to market with new offerings. Prominent in this strategy is maintaining a high level of market innovation to capture market share, often with one-for-all offerings, coupled with targeted distribution. These challengers use extensive campaigns and promotional programs to gain traction and capitalize on their “first-mover advantage”.
Offering-led service providers also work with multiple partners in the area of products and services. They typically use modern technology – such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) – in their operations, as well as a wide use of omni-channel strategies for customer experience management.
Service providers offering Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) on the rise
In addition to the need driven by the pandemic, there are three main factors that drive Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) growth. First, demand from consumers and businesses for digital services continues, driving the need for broadband connectivity.
Second, FWA delivered over 4G or 5G is an increasingly cost-efficient broadband alternative in areas with limited availability of fixed services, such as DSL, cable and fiber. Increasing capacity, allowed by greater spectrum allocations and technology advancements for 4G and 5G networks, is driving higher network efficiency in terms of the cost per delivered gigabyte.
Third, nations are fueling broadband connectivity through programs and subsidies, as it is considered vital for digitalization efforts and economic growth.
Telecom
MoMo PSB Brings Relief to UNILAG Students with Ultra-Cheap Bus Fares

MoMo Payment Service Bank (MoMo PSB), a fintech subsidiary of MTN Nigeria, has announced a partnership with Ogata Electric Vehicles to provide subsidised bus rides of ₦10 per fare to students of the University of Lagos (UNILAG).

MoMo PSB
The initiative, unveiled on Thursday in Lagos, is aimed at easing transportation costs for young Nigerians, particularly students, as part of MoMo PSB’s broader commitment to financial inclusion and digital accessibility.
MoMo PSB, which provides millions of Nigerians with secure financial services including transfers, savings, card services, bill payments and wallet solutions, said the transport subsidy reflects its mission to improve everyday life by reducing the cost of essential services.
The company explained that the partnership with Ogata Electric Vehicles would not only make commuting more affordable for students but also promote sustainable mobility through the use of electric buses.
Officials of MoMo PSB noted that the initiative is designed to bring “good cheer” to the UNILAG community, ensuring students can access safe, reliable and cost-effective transport while focusing on their education.
Telecom
MTN Nigeria Launches Unlimited 5G Broadband Plans to Boost Digital Inclusion

MTN Nigeria has launched its Unlimited Broadband Data plans powered by 5G technology, a move the telecoms giant says will tackle long-standing challenges of capped data limits, high costs and unstable connectivity faced by internet users across the country.

MTN Nigeria
Egerton Idehen, Chief Broadband Officer of MTN Nigeria, said the new product was designed to support high-demand users including streamers, gamers, households and businesses requiring uninterrupted connectivity.
“We’re building a broadband experience for everyday life. For content creators, remote workers, gamers, students and households. Our focus is on speed, reliability, low latency, and affordability.
“Broadband is designed to deliver seamless connectivity that empowers Nigerians to thrive in the digital economy,” Idehen said.
The plans, available in speed-based variants of 50Mbps and 100Mbps, promise lightning-fast speeds and ultra-low latency to address issues of lag and buffering. MTN said the packages would also provide affordable and flexible options to cater to diverse economic segments.
New customers who purchase a 5G router will enjoy a welcome bonus of unlimited data for the first 30 days, allowing them to experience the service before committing to long-term use.
The company explained that the initiative was part of its broader commitment to digital inclusion, enabling Nigerians to access stable connections for virtual meetings, large file transfers, online learning, high-definition streaming and professional gaming.
Customers can subscribe to the Unlimited Broadband Plans by dialling 4611#, using the MyMTN app, MTN eShop, MTN website, or visiting authorised retail outlets nationwide.
Telecom
Airtel Africa Foundation Opens Undergraduate Scholarship Portal in Nigeria

The Airtel Africa Foundation has opened applications for its Undergraduate Tech Scholarship in Nigeria, inviting first-year university students with strong academic potential to apply for financial support aimed at accelerating their studies in technology and related fields.

The scheme provides full tuition, accommodation support, and essential study materials for eligible 100-level students. It forms part of the Foundation’s F.E.E.D. agenda, which promotes Financial Empowerment, Education, Environmental Protection, and Digital Inclusion, with a focus on creating pathways for talented young people who face financial barriers.
Airtel Nigeria CEO, Dinesh Balsingh, encouraged students to take advantage of the opportunity. He noted that, “Education is one of the most powerful tools for national development,” adding that “as an organisation, Airtel is determined to build a platform for aspiring young Nigerians to learn, innovate and lead in the country’s expanding technology landscape.”
Applications are open to students pursuing courses such as Information Technology, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Data Science, Cyber Security, Artificial Intelligence, and other ICT-related disciplines at participating universities: University of Lagos, University of Nigeria Nsukka, Ahmadu Bello University, University of Benin, Obafemi Awolowo University, University of Ilorin, and Tai Solarin University of Education.
Dr Segun Ogunsanya, Chairman of the Airtel Africa Foundation, said the scholarship demonstrates the organisation’s commitment to nurturing Africa’s next generation of digital leaders. “Young Africans are brimming with talent and ambition. What many need is a fair chance to pursue their education without financial pressure. This scholarship reflects our belief that investing in their growth will strengthen communities, empower families, and expand the continent’s digital future,” he said.
Applicants must be enrolled in 100-level, have scored at least 230 in JAMB, and hold a minimum of five credits in WAEC, including English and Mathematics, in a single sitting. Required documents include Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) results, university admission letter, West African Examination Council (WAEC) certificate, student identity card, and academic transcript or university results.
The Foundation encourages qualified students across the listed institutions to apply and position themselves for a stronger start in the technology sector. Applications can be submitted at candidate.scholastica.ng/schemes/airtelfellowship2025.
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