Nigeria’s Internet Traffic Surges to 1 Terabit Per Second
In a groundbreaking development, Nigeria’s domestic internet traffic has reached a record 1 terabit per second (Tbps), according to the Internet Exchange Point of Nigeria (IXPN). This milestone—equivalent to simultaneously streaming over 200,000 high-definition videos—underscores the explosive growth in online video consumption from platforms such as Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube.
Achieved in March 2024, this historic benchmark signals the country’s ascent as Africa’s second-largest internet exchange hub, only behind South Africa. More importantly, it reflects Nigeria’s shift from international bandwidth dependency toward a robust, locally hosted content delivery ecosystem.
Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube Spark Digital Growth
The sharp increase in video consumption is the primary catalyst behind this internet traffic surge. As of early 2025, Nigeria hosts:
- 38.7 million Facebook users
- 37.4 million TikTok users
- 27 million YouTube users
These numbers demonstrate how digital platforms are reshaping the country’s internet landscape. YouTube alone recorded a 55% year-on-year growth in watch time among Nigerians aged 18 and above by October 2024, engaging over 30 million users. TikTok and Facebook have seen similar spikes, with video content remaining the dominant form of engagement.
Local Content Hosting Revolutionizes Connectivity
This growing demand has shifted significant portions of internet data to locally routed traffic via IXPN, Nigeria’s core digital infrastructure. IXPN enables Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and global content platforms to exchange data within the country rather than routing it overseas. This approach drastically reduces costs, improves speed, and ensures higher reliability.
According to IXPN CEO Muhammed Rudman, “A throughput of 1 terabit per second means that 1 million Nigerians could be on phone calls or Zoom meetings simultaneously. It also allows 200,000 users to stream Netflix or local videos at the same time—all without relying on external networks.”
The Journey from Megabits to Terabits
When IXPN began operations in 2007, Nigeria’s internet exchange traffic hovered between 5 and 10 megabits per second (Mbps). At the time, most internet data was routed via international links such as the SAT-3 submarine cable or satellite services, resulting in slower speeds and higher operating costs.
However, the trajectory began to change in 2009 when Google expressed interest in peering with IXPN. By 2011, this collaboration dramatically increased traffic from below 20 Mbps to over 120 Mbps. By 2012, IXPN was handling over 600 Mbps, marking the start of a steep climb. Traffic grew to 126 gigabits per second by 2019 and reached 900 Gbps by the end of 2024—setting the stage for the 1 Tbps milestone.
Big Tech Investments Power Nigeria’s Internet Infrastructure
A key factor behind this growth has been the infrastructure investment by global tech giants. Companies like Google, Microsoft, Facebook, Amazon, Netflix, TikTok, and Starlink now peer directly with IXPN, enhancing the efficiency of Nigeria’s internet ecosystem.
Many of these organizations are routing 10% to 70% of their traffic locally. This shift significantly reduces reliance on upstream providers and allows ISPs to pass on cost savings to consumers. As Rudman explained, “An ISP with 1,000 users consuming 1 Gbps of data may now route up to 700 Mbps through IXPN. This cuts costs and reduces congestion on international links.”
Benefits of Local Data Routing: Speed, Affordability, and Reliability
The benefits of localizing content go beyond economics. Peering partnerships and the expansion of local data centers have:
- Improved internet speeds
- Reduced latency
- Increased affordability of broadband
- Boosted Nigeria’s digital economy
This evolution is transforming Nigeria from a passive internet consumer into a self-reliant digital hub. It empowers businesses, content creators, and consumers to interact with high-speed internet that rivals international standards.
Nigeria’s Future as a Regional Digital Leader
With traffic volumes now exceeding 1 Tbps, Nigeria has solidified its position as a key player in Africa’s digital future. Its rapid technological advancement shows that the country is ready to lead conversations on data sovereignty, digital infrastructure, and affordable internet access for all.
This trend also paves the way for increased innovation in sectors such as e-learning, telemedicine, fintech, and remote work, which depend heavily on fast, reliable internet services.
Conclusion: Nigeria’s Internet Boom Is Just Beginning
The record-breaking 1 Tbps traffic milestone is more than a technical achievement—it represents a significant step toward digital independence and sustainable growth. As video streaming continues to rise, and more global content is hosted locally, Nigeria’s internet ecosystem is poised for an even brighter, more connected future.
By focusing on local content hosting, strategic tech partnerships, and infrastructure investment, Nigeria is creating an environment where digital innovation can thrive.
