Nigeria’s smartphone boom, now at 85 percent penetration, is being driven by youth, fintech, and 5G growth but comes with rising health and social risks.
Nigeria is witnessing an unprecedented mobile technology boom, with smartphone penetration reaching 85 percent across its 200 million population, according to new industry data.
The surge reflects a broader economic rebound after the naira crisis that briefly dampened consumer spending in early 2025, when shipments fell 7 percent in the first quarter. By the second quarter, however, the market grew 10 percent as currency stability returned and inflation eased.
The shift from basic phones to internet-enabled devices is reshaping business, finance, and entertainment. Market projections suggest 140 million Nigerians will own smartphones by the end of 2025, among the fastest adoption rates in Africa.
Changing buying habits also play a role. Middle-class consumers now favor Chinese brands like Xiaomi and OPPO, while refurbished iPhones and locally assembled TECNO devices dominate the budget-conscious market.
Youth demographics further fuel demand: with a median age of 18, millions of Nigerians use smartphones for streaming, gaming, mobile banking, and side businesses. Platforms like Opay and PalmPay process billions monthly, expanding financial inclusion nationwide.
Experts caution, however, that addiction, screen-related health problems, and social isolation are rising among heavy users.
Looking ahead, affordable 5G phones and expanding infrastructure could push penetration to 87 percent by 2030, though currency stability and rural coverage remain key challenges.