Nigeria is Africa’s largest mobile market, with four big networks and rapidly expanding 4G plus live 5G in Lagos, Abuja and other major cities. The catch for visitors is SIM registration: local prepaid SIMs require a National Identification Number (NIN) and biometrics, which a travel eSIM neatly sidesteps.
Networks & coverage
The four operators are MTN, Airtel, Glo and 9mobile. MTN has the broadest and generally fastest network, with Airtel a close competitor; both run 5G in Lagos and Abuja. Coverage is strong across cities and highways but thins to 3G in rural states, so set expectations accordingly outside the main urban centres.
eSIM or physical SIM?
For most travellers a travel eSIM (Airalo, Nomad, Saily, plus regional Africa eSIMs from Ubigi) is the easy choice — no NIN, no biometric capture, no shop queue. A local SIM is far cheaper for big data allowances and gives you a Nigerian number, but registration now requires your NIN, passport, fingerprints and photo, which is impractical for a short visit.
Data, calls & messaging
Local data is inexpensive once you are registered, and a starter tourist SIM typically costs 1,500–3,000 NGN with a bundle attached. Travel and regional eSIMs are data-only with no Nigerian number, so route calls through WhatsApp. A regional Africa eSIM is worth considering if your trip also touches neighbouring countries.
How much data do you need?
For navigation, messaging and ride-hailing apps over a few days, 1–3 GB is enough. A week or more of regular use suits a 5 GB plan, while a longer stay or shared hotspot use is better served by a 10 GB local or regional bundle.