Airtel Nigeria launches 5G mobile network to intensify competition in the Nigerian telecoms market

Airtel Nigeria, a telecommunications provider, is set to launch its 5G mobile network today.

This move is expected to intensify competition within the Nigerian telecoms market, attract new customers, and improve Airtel’s market share.

The introduction of Airtel’s 5G network is expected to support the Nigerian authorities’ ambitions for digital transformation by accelerating broadband adoption.

According to the latest data from the Nigeria Communication Commission (NCC), Airtel currently holds 27.01 percent of the national mobile subscriber base.

Airtel’s entry into the 5G space marks its entrance into the ultra-broadband segment, which has been predominantly dominated by MTN since its launch of the latest-generation technology in September 2022.

Additionally, Mafab Communications has been providing 5G services since January of the same year.

In January, Airtel announced the acquisition of a 5G spectrum and additional spectrum for its 4G network, with a total investment of $316.7 million.

This licence acquisition increases the number of 5G licences in Nigeria to three. In 2021, MTN Nigeria and Mafab Nigeria Communications Limited secured the two available 100 MHz TDD slots of the 3.5 GHz band.

Features of Airtel 5G Router

• Connects up to 64 devices simultaneously, catering to all your connectivity needs.

• Lightning-fast 5G speeds, unlocking a new level of performance and enjoying the benefits of 5G without the need to invest in a new 5G smartphone.

• 10GB sign-on bonus when you complete the Know Your Customer (KYC) process.

• Unparalleled network stability, guaranteeing a reliable and uninterrupted connection.

At the moment, Airtel 5G mobile network goes for ₦‎30,000 connection fee (plus up to 250 GB bonus data) free and instant 10 GB data upon activation. Also, users will get a 100% bonus on purchases of ₦10,000 and above plan for the first 6 months.

For now, the Airtel 5G enabled brands are Huawei, iPad, iPhone, Samsung, Tecno and Xiaomi. Airtel Nigeria launches 5G mobile network today to intensify competition in the Nigerian telecoms market.

How will I know if my device is 5G compatible?

To Check 5G Support for Android Phones

• Massive network capacity for multiple users at the same time.

• Swift upload and download speed internet access across multiple devices and users.

• Ultra-low latency while downloading and uploading rich content, multimedia, and business applications.

• Provides a high level of performance needed for the Internet of things (IoT).

To Check 5G Support for Apple iPhones

• Open the ‘Setting’ Icon on your device.

• Tap on ‘cellular/mobile data’.

• Tap on ‘cellular/mobile data option’.

• Tap on Voice & Data. If you see 5G as an option there, your phone is 5G compatible.

How do I enable my device to get on 5G?

Below are steps to enable your device to 5G and these steps vary, depending on the device type.

For IOS devices

Go to Settings > Mobile Data > Mobile Data Options > Voice & Data>5G Auto.

For Android devices

Go to Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks > Network Mode> select the network mode with 5G/4G/3G (autoconnect)