× Startups Business News Education Health Finance Technology Opinion Wealth Rankings Politics Leadership Sport Travels Careers Design Environment Energy Luxury Retail Lifestyle Automotives Photography International Press Release Article Entertainment
×

Top 10 Telecom Companies in Nigeria

July 29, 2024

These telecommunication companies, a pillar in Nigeria’s economic infrastructure, drive the rapid digitization and transformation of various sectors, enabling not only the nation but Africa as a whole to step boldly into the digital future. 

Quick Summary

  • Telecom companies in Nigeria have significantly contributed to the country’s economic and technological growth.
  • With major players like MTN, Globacom, Airtel, and 9mobile, the industry offers widespread mobile and data connectivity, increasingly adopting advanced technologies like 4G LTE, and is now gearing towards 5G.

List of the Top 10 Telecom Companies in Nigeria 

In the highly competitive telecommunications sector in Nigeria, several companies have risen above the rest in terms of subscriber base, network coverage, and innovation. 

The telecom sector contributes about 8.83% to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as of the second quarter of 2020. Here, we take a look at the top 10 plus telecom companies operating in Nigeria.

  1. MTN Nigeria Communications PLC
  2. Airtel Networks Limited (Airtel Africa PLC)
  3. Globacom Limited
  4. BroadBased Communications Limited
  5. 9Mobile(Emerging Markets Telecommunication Services Ltd)
  6. MainOne Service Company Limited
  7. Fiberone Broadband Limited
  8. Backbone Connectivity Network (Nigeria) Limited
  9. Viasat Inc.
  10. SpaceX LLC
  11. ipNX Nigeria Limited
  12. Tizeti Network Limited
  13. Ngcom Networks Solutions

1. MTN Nigeria Communications PLC

bEiwcDDADXYPO2 0fQvuSBnkfHI 9LM 1 UZk 6ppm4bE6mQRBHRcdMtD sGyvZ96ff5y20oViW05osaNPd7NYbonf FjQhvv1YX hAgPNRyurUfl o0EfU nUMDcQGQhHgBLgO8Uur LYNI2LJFow

MTN Nigeria is a subsidiary of the MTN Group, Africa’s largest cellular telecommunications provider. The company emerged as the first mobile operator in Nigeria to obtain a 5G technology trial license from the Nigerian Communications Commission. 

It has a large network infrastructure, with its services covering almost every corner of the country. The telecom company continues to invest significantly in state-of-the-art technology, products, and services, ensuring a strong foothold in the Nigerian telecommunications sector. 

The strength of MTN lies in its competitive pricing strategies, large user base, comprehensive product portfolio, and high-speed data connectivity, which positions it as a leader in the telecom sector.

Take time to read through the – Top 15 Tech Companies in Lagos, Nigeria | TransferXO Rankings

2. Airtel Networks Limited (Airtel Africa PLC)

uDfiQzccpLEj8fS5n8A idOuulJlchsupg9Uu JqH9qXnwu5f3XVcOJ2R hCiIs0k19QsI40mZmO2jgxSJvTaEfly6LFEiQ44nk7IW9JyKxZ1OXLlkmc5mxFBtv8KHwtizcQ QBe7cxqOwZB6z XTg

Airtel Nigeria, part of the Bharti Airtel group, is one of Africa’s leading mobile telecommunications providers. The company holds a considerable market share, underpinned by strong brand recognition. 

Known for providing a variety of affordable tariff plans and exceptional data and call quality, it continues to invest in network expansion and 4G upgrades across the country. 

Airtel also sets itself apart with customer-focused services such as a personalized ‘My Airtel’ App and value-added services. Its consistent commitment to innovation, quality service delivery, and customer satisfaction sets it as one of the leading telecommunications providers in Nigeria.

3. Globacom Limited

29ORT4E5Fv bdst3UuwU74BKTlcC2T9UZhnJPyk8qND8VWkUCxNuenzRSC1NkMKNtVx13yDwYjw7kn7lCzCwPGIKnU3Oku b5 v2eVhIBNunMxqxWeZ892ak1OE X6V2BXS EPHGnycEu1M5oFQn3Q

Globacom Limited, known as Glo, is a major player in Nigeria’s telecom sector. Founded in 2003, Glo stands as Nigeria’s first indigenous and privately-owned telecommunications network provider. This has attracted significant national loyalty and brand equity. 

Glo is recognized for launching the first 4G LTE network in West Africa, which dramatically enhanced internet speeds and coverage across Nigeria. Their affordable data plans, extensive 4G network, excellent coverage, and innovative value-added services are their unique selling propositions. 

They also offer digital solutions such as mobile banking and app-based services, which contribute to their growth and competitiveness in Nigeria’s telecom industry.

4. BroadBased Communications Limited

od52yfXuWfqvhixf8zVmnwemmEI6O7tBySUdhPd39oyZWRSr8yxCAUyIIHR0cM RZuJn5yFibuuIL

BroadBased Communications Limited, popularly known as BBCOM, is among the leading telecom companies in Nigeria. Founded in 2012, it provides premium quality metro fiber-optic telecommunications services and infrastructure to businesses and organizations across Nigeria. 

BBCOM is recognized for its significant contribution to the digital transformation of Nigeria by deploying 3,500 km of high-speed broadband within Lagos state. What sets them apart is their robust fiber optic network, unrivaled reliability, and low latency. 

They deliver high-speed internet, intracity, and intercity fiber-optic connectivity solutions, which enhance business performance. Thus, making it the top choice for many Nigerian businesses for their telecommunication needs.

5. 9Mobile(Emerging Markets Telecommunication Services Ltd)

Bjh7zehWxg7Lhorrk78jy5hwv1r9fq1NsVqQwb3m27Ov3j5QFyNvgR8mtvLooPeyu3SiOwl LFQQCSdNneYIwPWmxLqOzo3WTxmRCak1r3cKXf19TcoRZBX IsaziG gcRnAyxlC9YGpWh KaIdIFw

9Mobile, also known as Emerging Markets Telecommunication Services Ltd (EMTS), is one of the top telecom companies in Nigeria. It was originally established as Etisalat Nigeria and was rebranded as 9Mobile in 2017. 

9Mobile stands out for its exceptional service and excellent customer satisfaction. It offers a wide range of services including mobile, fixed, broadband, 3G, 4G services, and much more. 

9Mobile’s commitment to innovation, simplicity, and quality makes it one of the most preferred telecom companies in Nigeria. It aims to empower Nigerians with the power of communication and advanced technologies, setting the pace in network quality and efficiency.

6. MainOne Service Company Limited 

MainOne Service Company Limited is one of the leading telecommunications companies in Nigeria that provides a plethora of innovative services. The company stands out because it provides superior network connectivity solutions and also offers broadband-based services. 

They run a 7,000km submarine cable which ensures reliable high-speed internet service. Moreover, Main One prides itself on delivering world-class, reliable, and secure Internet services that support businesses and aid growth in the region. 

This approach has helped Main One Service Company Limited gain its place as one of Nigeria’s top telecommunication providers, consistently setting new standards in the industry with its excellent services and products.

7. Fiberone Broadband Limited

iWoYnhP8QpXtUdptdZcIZFpPzw3cCm70aQw19OYpc51dKIylVvJuRh8viJmAuA 5263D0nDyOVUwrmjf7QXrQMIWI4ytzOUaXoRHNznFh9YI6O265 W8ab qsXHrrAD52ETga7 alaqZRou01oQqfw

Fiberone Broadband Limited is among the top telecom companies in Nigeria, known for providing super-fast and unlimited broadband services to various segments, including residential, SME, and large enterprises. 

What makes them stand out is their impressive technological infrastructure that facilitates top-quality connectivity without interruptions. They ensure the smooth running of internet-dependent operations, be it online gaming, movie streaming, or professional tasks. 

They offer plans that are not only affordable but also flexible to meet diverse user needs. Exceptional customer service is another major strength, with a 24/7 technical support system for efficient problem resolution.

8. Backbone Connectivity Network (Nigeria) Limited

rvMgDxL3H1SOUTH8NkBQ90 BLkN0tJEQ1fnZ UErXKFrCbkt45eKfAFt

Backbone Connectivity Network (Nigeria) Limited, often recognized as BCN, ranks among the top telecom providers in Nigeria. It offers a variety of services ranging from high-speed broadband, leased lines, metropolitan and wide area network services, and IP VPN solutions to cloud services. 

The reason it excels is because it’s deeply committed to promoting internet access and digital services throughout Nigeria. Their key differentiator is their ability to provide custom-built solutions that suit the specific needs of clients from different sectors. 

Moreover, their highly professional staff members are known for providing round-the-clock support, contributing to BCN’s position as a preferred telecom partner for many businesses.

9. Viasat Inc.

V86Lrf72zJNZ0kvBDlBhgu e8LvBU mwREY siGZD WDd3lnjTcKlR ciP8lR79C Ip4Cg6LKlTffbIgV0xMlqpvefmFnuvAEkXeyP0ivGUpec92hTHpYpS5LkZM6nHKQk

Viasat Inc., an American communications company, operates impressively within Nigeria’s telecommunication space, delivering high-quality internet service. Their offerings are more comprehensive compared to typical telecoms firms, with specialization in satellite broadband and wireless services, catering for commercial and residential uses. 

Notably, they’ve bridged the internet access gap in Nigeria’s remote areas via reliable, high-speed satellite broadband. This distinct operation has provided numerous Nigerians access to education, healthcare, and commerce, promoting social and economic growth. 

Furthermore, their internet service provides critical backup during terrestrial network outages. Viasat’s unparalleled service quality and broad reach set them apart as one of the top telecom companies in Nigeria.

10. SpaceX LLC

HXPgd2UmxhKhqX3pro4g1DUe7 jRTVDwV5XKVTEkGlTqqe8z64FhLqjRmp nZGRRIRO3hE 75DJmuqnwDKhJz U3EL Waw3lNe15g gk1lPkjL7ZtbaD

SpaceX LLC is one of the global frontiers of innovative telecommunications, and it is making an impact in Nigeria. Through their advanced Starlink satellite internet service, SpaceX is addressing internet accessibility issues across rural and underdeveloped areas of Nigeria. 

They provide superfast broadband internet connectivity that surpasses most traditional telecom service providers. Beyond offering excellent speed internet, SpaceX contributes significantly to developing Nigeria’s telecom sector, leading the satellite internet revolution with lower latency. 

What places SpaceX LLC on the top is its unique approach to overcoming infrastructural challenges associated with traditional telecommunication and its efforts in digitizing rural and remote communities, ultimately fueling socio-economic progress.