The growth of the internet isn’t going at the same rate across the globe. Internet development isn’t as fast for most African countries, including Nigeria.

With an estimated population of 200 million people, only approximately 111 million are connected to the internet. Internet connectivity is a prominent feature in urban areas. These are areas where 51.9% of the population lives and are mostly connected due to the sizeable young working population. Meanwhile, the rest of the population lives primarily unconnected or away from the internet.

The government is fully aware of this issue. Thus, for the past several years, the Nigerian government has implemented several key measures to improve the quality and reach of the Internet across the country. In return, Nigerians have begun to see improvement in several industries due to the improvement of Internet quality and reach.

Impact on Entertainment

There has been a surge in the online entertainment sector as Nigeria improved its digital infrastructure. The government had been working with the private sector to invest in expanding broadband networks and mobile connectivity.

According to the NCC (Nigerian Communications Commission), Internet penetration in Nigeria has reached over 50%. This shows that more Nigerians have gained access to high-speed connections. This is mainly due to mobile data plans and smartphones becoming more affordable. 

These developments have become the perfect opportunity for entertainment providers from various sectors to thrive. This includes the online casino industry, with suppliers like Live88. Live dealer games demand a good Internet connection in return for their real-time gaming experience. Thus, online gambling enthusiasts in Nigeria could access live casino games more easily through their devices.

Operators can gain better access when providing an online gaming platform. They can utilise services, like a blackjack API, for seamless integration. This ensures they can build a high-quality platform with enough games catering to a wide range of audiences.

Mobile-Based Entertainment

Mobile technology is one of the technological improvements that significantly changed how people interact with entertainment. It has also become the backbone of Nigeria’s digital revolution, as over 80% of the internet traffic came from mobile users. This allowed mobile-based entertainment to flourish across the country.

More entertainment products focus on mobile development and optimisation for a better user experience. These include streaming services and social media platforms mainly profiting from mobile use.

Innovative Technologies

Mobile devices aren’t the only thing taking over the online gaming sector. More innovative technologies have been launched for gaming. Many of them utilise advanced features such as Artificial Intelligence and blockchain.

In online gaming, AI plays a big part in personalising algorithms to enhance user experience. Meanwhile, blockchain improves security and transparency to build trust among users.

Another big game changer in the gaming sector is Virtual Reality. While it’s still in its early stages, VR can be the start line of an immersive online gaming experience.

Impact on Education

Nigeria and most parts of the world have experienced digital learning and started to use it more in education structures. The internet has generally reshaped how people can gain knowledge and even skills.

Once Nigeria improved its Internet quality, it opened a path for them to tackle other problems. Some of them are the quality of educational resources and teaching methods. Online learning platforms became the perfect way to bridge gaps. They also provide more opportunities for people nationwide.

Digital education gives more access and increases engagement. It can personalise the learning experience. This shift has also given educators more power, allowing them to embrace innovative approaches. 

Digital learning can also help Nigeria tackle other challenges, including:

• Overcrowded classrooms
• Unqualified tutors
• Inadequate study materials in remote regions

It emerged as an innovative fix that could revolutionise Nigeria’s education system, and it has been slowly making changes over the years. One that stands out the most is how it has affected training methodology. Digitalisation and technological advancements help tutors present content more dynamically.

The Internet also provides materials more quickly and efficiently than traditional learning. There are new opportunities for development and growth everywhere, from interactive learning tools to online courses.

Impact on Businesses

Among other sectors, digitalisation might be the most impactful for businesses. It’s one of the sectors that require constant optimisation according to the changing trends. Some of the most apparent changes that Internet accessibility has brought to businesses include:

• Mobile optimisation
• Cloud computing
• E-commerce platforms
• Digital banking
• Online services
• Tech-driven innovations

Due to the increased smartphone usage, wide internet penetration, and government policies encouraging innovation, Nigeria’s digital economy has seen significant growth. With over 50% of the population actively using the Internet, businesses get more expansion opportunities.

Higher Consumption

Due to accessibility, Nigerians can shop, bank, and hire services online. Businesses that have successfully adapted to this change will have a competitive edge. This means they must offer convenient, tech-friendly options, such as apps, e-commerce platforms, and widely used mobile banking methods.

These opportunities aren’t only for established companies; small businesses can quickly play on an even field. Wider Internet accessibility has made this possible. Tools and platforms that used to be available only to more prominent companies have become more accessible.

For example, small businesses can utilise social media platforms for more exposure at minimal costs. On the other hand, payment gateways make it easier for them to integrate convenient payment methods.

Encouraging Innovation

As the Internet opens more opportunities, businesses can look for a way to present a more innovative way to gain customers. For example, app-based transportation was a recent innovation that could revolutionise transportation in major Nigerian cities.

Fintech startups had also been jumping in to take the chance to present something new. This includes providing new ways for Nigerians to save and manage their money conveniently.

FAQ

What Percentage of Nigerians Are On The Internet?

As of 2022, there were 84 million Nigerian internet users. This number is expected to grow to 117 million in 2027.

How Does Internet Accessibility Affect Nigeria’s Entertainment?

More online entertainment platforms, including streaming platforms, mobile-based entertainment, and innovative gaming consoles, have become more accessible in Nigeria.

Does Wider Internet Accessibility Improve Nigeria’s Education System?

Yes, educational organisations can present interactive learning. Learners can also access more educational resources more easily.