Fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) connections in Nigeria surged by 149% as of the end of 2025, according to data from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). The number of subscribers rose from 84,141 in the fourth quarter of 2025 to 210,065 by the end of the year.
Growing adoption of fixed broadband
The NCC noted that while the number of connections remains modest relative to national demand, the upward trend reflects growing adoption of fixed broadband services. The telecom regulator stated that the expansion of FTTH and other fixed-fibre connections would help ease pressure on mobile networks, improve service quality, and provide consumers with more connectivity options.
NCC board meeting highlights
During its 109th meeting, the NCC Board appreciated the Commission's ongoing review of the telecommunications market structure to reflect current realities, including the distinct roles of wholesale and retail segments and the application of appropriate regulatory measures. The Board further noted that broader access to wholesale backbone fibre, supported by expanded metropolitan fibre networks, will enable more homes, buildings, and businesses to connect to fixed broadband services. Over time, this should help reduce underlying connectivity costs, create conditions for more affordable retail data services, and improve network resilience.
Challenges to FTTH deployment
Meanwhile, the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) has raised concerns over persistent challenges slowing further FTTH deployment across the country. Despite growing demand for high-speed broadband, operators and investors face multiple taxation regimes, high right-of-way charges, regulatory bottlenecks, and infrastructure vandalism. Inconsistent policies across states, limited financing options, and high capital expenditure requirements have further hindered progress, leaving millions of Nigerians without reliable access to fast internet for education, healthcare, commerce, and innovation.
Analysts' perspective
Analysts noted that FTTH in Nigeria is steadily transforming internet access by delivering ultra-fast, reliable broadband directly to households. Major providers such as MTN and Layer3 offer speeds ranging from 50 Mbps to 1 Gbps, with some deployments exploring next-generation XGS-PON technology for even higher capacity. These services often come with unlimited data, making them ideal for streaming, gaming, and remote work. However, challenges remain, including high subscription costs, infrastructure gaps, and limited coverage outside major cities like Lagos and Abuja. Despite these hurdles, FTTH is driving digital inclusion and positioning Nigeria for a more connected future.
