MTN plans to shut down 3G network in Nigeria
By Aboki Forex —
MTN Group has announced plans to gradually shut down its 3G network across Africa within four years. The move will affect Nigeria, where 3G technology first brought internet access to millions of people.
No official date has been set for Nigeria. But MTN says preparations are already underway in several other markets as the company shifts focus to 4G and 5G networks.
3G arrived in Nigeria in 2006 when Starcomms launched the country's first service. Before that, internet access was mostly limited to cybercafés and office connections. The technology changed everything. Nigerians could browse the web, send emails, and use online services from their phones.
The boom accelerated in 2007 when telecom operators secured 3G spectrum licences. BlackBerry phones became a status symbol. BBM changed how young people and professionals communicated. Android devices later made internet access affordable for millions.
By 2014 and 2015, 3G accounted for nearly half of all mobile internet connections in Nigeria. It became the backbone of the digital economy. E-commerce, online media, fintech startups, and digital communities all grew on the strength of 3G.
Industry experts warn that retiring 3G too soon could leave millions without adequate connectivity. Many Nigerians still rely on 3G, especially in rural areas where 4G coverage is limited.