Poor network quality drives 41,239 telecom subscribers to switch networks in 2025 – NCC
By SUMAYYAH ADEFAKA
Persistent network congestion, slow data speeds and erratic connectivity pushed at least 41,239 telecom subscribers to switch service providers in 2025, according to new data from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).
The affected subscribers utilised the Mobile Number Portability (MNP) scheme to move across networks in search of more reliable service, a stability that remained largely elusive during the period under review.
The MNP scheme, launched by the NCC in April 2013, allows subscribers to change mobile networks while retaining their original phone numbers. Designed to promote consumer choice, deepen competition and compel operators to improve service quality, the scheme is now in its 13th year.
However, industry observers note that Nigeria’s widespread multi-SIM culture appears to have weakened the impact of the initiative, as many users simply maintain multiple lines across the four major operators rather than rely on a single network.
Data obtained by The DEFENDER show that MTN recorded the highest number of port-ins in 2025, gaining 24,550 subscribers, while 3,480 users left the network. Airtel gained 11,035 subscribers, with 3,732 port-outs. Globacom lost 4,059 subscribers** but recorded 5,542 port-ins.
T2, however, suffered the biggest loss through the scheme, recording 29,877 port-outs, while only 107 subscribers moved into the network.
Despite its poor showing under MNP, T2 emerged top in technical compliance on road network coverage, according to an NCC-backed performance assessment.
The Q4 2025 Industry Performance Report by Ookla, a global leader in network intelligence and connectivity insights, found that southern and central corridors — including **Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt** — enjoy relatively robust signal coverage along major highways, while northern corridors continue to experience sparse connectivity.
The report noted that T2 outperformed larger legacy operators in maintaining signals strictly within technical standards along major road networks (trunk roads).
