MTN Nigeria, Airtel Nigeria, and Mafab Communications were awarded 5G licenses by the NCC.
However, only MTN and Airtel have actually deployed commercial services so far.
MTN has of now, launched 5G in major cities like Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Kano, Maiduguri, Ibadan, Owerri, Warri, Enugu, Benin City, and Abeokuta, operating over 2,100 active sites across 13 cities.
Airtel has (by mid-2025) deployed over 200 5G sites across cities such as Lagos, Ogun, Abuja, and Rivers State.
But Despite the increased deployment, 5G penetration in Nigeria remains low, with only around 3.07% of mobile connections using 5G by mid-2025.
So here are ways you can check it 5G is currently supported in your area.
Ways to Check If Your Area Has 5G
Step 1: Visit Official Operator Coverage Map
- MTN: Head to the 5G page on the MTN Coverage Locator and use their “View 5G Coverage” tool to check if your exact location is supported.
- Airtel: Reach out or check their announcements for coverage updates; official online tools may vary.
Step 2: Use Third-Party Mapping Tools
Apps or Websites like Ookla Speedtest Map and nPerf provide user-generated maps showing real-world 5G availability. Use these to cross-check operator claims.
Step 3: Search Online Articles or Local Reports
Sources like TechSocial and others highlight coverage expansion, it’s helpful for broader area confirmation.
Step 4: Test on Your Device (Once You Think You’re in Coverage)
- Ensure you have a 5G-capable device and compatible SIM card.
- Enable 5G in your phone settings: go to Settings → Connections → Mobile Networks → Network Mode, and choose 5G/LTE/3G/2G (Auto).
- Observe your signal indicator, your phone should show a 5G icon if you’re within range.
Where Is 5G Currently Available in Nigeria?
| Operator | Cities Covered | Estimated Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| MTN | Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Kano, Maiduguri, Ibadan, Owerri, Warri, Enugu, Benin City, Abeokuta | 2,100+ sites in 13 cities |
| Airtel | Lagos, Ogun, Abuja, Rivers | 200+ sites |
| Mafab | Claimed launches—pending actual network availability | No verified deployment |
Key Factors That Influence Your 5G Experience
- Device compatibility: Ensure your phone supports Nigeria’s 5G frequency bands—n78 (3500 MHz) and/or n38 (2600 MHz). Some MTN-specific phones may require software updates.
- Coverage rollout pace: MTN continues focusing on capacity over expansion, while Airtel plans accelerated rollout to meet growing data needs.
- Low adoption rate: Even in covered areas, only a small fraction of users currently access 5G due to device costs and limited infrastructure.
How to Confirm 5G Availability in Your Nigerian Area
- Check MTN/Airtel official coverage maps or customer support.
- Use real-world tools like Ookla Speedtest Map and nPerf to validate coverage.
- Ensure you have a compatible device and SIM.
- Enable 5G in your phone settings and watch for the 5G icon.
- Stay updated, coverage is expanding, so revisit periodically.
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