Despite the rising shift towards digital lifestyles, the surge in data utilisation, the proliferation of the Internet of Things (IoT), gaming, AI, and the emergence of cutting-edge technologies, including 5G, access to affordable internet connection remains a significant challenge in Nigeria. According to in-depth research conducted by the Alliance for Affordable Internet (A4AI), only 12.1 per cent of the Nigerian population currently enjoys quality internet services.

Infrastructure deficit, high cost and poor network coverage are the major reasons for low internet connectivity in Nigeria. To solve this problem, MediaTek, a global fabless semiconductor company that enables nearly 2 billion connected devices a year, recently collaborated with Airtel Nigeria, a leading telecommunications service provider to offer a solution that allows users to access high-speed 5G networks from the comfort of their homes, opening doors to effective remote work, gaming, online education, and entertainment streaming like never before.

The collaboration highlights MediaTek’s T750-powered Customer Premises Equipment (CPE), a groundbreaking technology that fully features all essential functions and peripherals for device makers to build high-performance CPE products, such as Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) routers and mobile hotspots (MiFi), in the smallest form factors possible.

The MediaTek T750 product offers remarkable out-of-the-box 5G speeds, reaching up to an impressive 4.7Gbps. This surpasses the performance of traditional fixed-line services, harnessing existing cellular infrastructure while avoiding the expenses associated with cable or fibre installation.

This collaboration will connect millions of individuals to the digital economy and play a crucial role in advancing mobile connectivity throughout Nigeria. As a rapidly growing economy, with the ICT sector contributing 18.44% to Nigeria’s GDP in Q2 2022, and e-commerce spending projected to grow to $75 billion by 2025 (Statista), this partnership will significantly enhance Nigeria’s participation in the global technology sphere.

Airtel Nigeria focuses on enhancing high-speed internet access through advanced chipsets, offering a wider range of premium and flagship devices while supporting the transition from feature phones to smartphones and exploring innovative AI-IoT solutions. This collaboration will drive digital inclusion, revolutionise connectivity in Nigeria, and contribute to sustainable development goals.”

Access to the Internet for education, business conferences, access to government services, and many other advantages has been a long-standing issue in Nigeria. Challenges related to fixed broadband and difficulties in connecting copper or optical fibres have restricted internet penetration.
MediaTek’s collaboration with Airtel now offers 5G fixed wireless access that is cost-effective and provides wider coverage, marking the first realistic opportunity in the last two decades to seriously connect African households and businesses.

MediaTek’s influence in Nigeria extends across diverse cutting-edge technologies, including smart devices, automotive technology, satellite connectivity solutions, and next-generation wearables. As MediaTek continues to improve mobile technology in Nigeria, the country is poised for a digital transformation that promises to shape its future in unimaginable ways.

The remarkable surge in mobile connectivity, coupled with the unwavering commitment of industry giants like MediaTek and Airtel, is propelling Nigeria into the global digital era where connectivity knows no bounds. Amid this transformation, MediaTek stands as a beacon, guiding Nigeria into a future where the possibilities are limitless, and the connectivity is seamless.

Rami Osman, Director for Business Development, MediaTek Middle East, and Africa