The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has disclosed plans to make cheaper smartphones available in the Nigerian market amid rising device costs driven by inflation and currency depreciation.
The Executive Vice Chairman of the Commission, Aminu Maida, made this known during a media parley with journalists in Abuja on Friday, noting that efforts are underway to improve affordability and expand access to digital services.
His remarks come as smartphone prices in Nigeria hit record highs in 2026. Entry-level devices now typically start above N100,000, while mid-range smartphones range between N150,000 and over N250,000. Premium devices, particularly flagship models, now exceed N1 million.
Market data indicates that the budget segment, priced between N100,000 and N200,000, is dominated by devices such as the Redmi 15C and Samsung Galaxy A07. The mid-range category, costing between N200,000 and N400,000, includes models like the Infinix Hot 60 Pro and Tecno Spark 40 Pro Plus, offering improved specifications.
High-end smartphones, priced from N500,000 upwards, include devices such as the Tecno Phantom X5 Pro, while newer Samsung Galaxy Fold and Flip series now exceed N1.6 million. Meanwhile, used devices—popularly referred to as “UK-used”—remain a more affordable option, with models like the iPhone 11 Pro Max selling for around N495,000.
Industry experts attribute the surge in prices to foreign exchange volatility, high import duties, and persistent inflation.
“We are looking at how cheaper smartphones can be introduced into the market,” Maida said. “But despite this, we are seeing more users migrating to 4G. Users are moving away from 3G and 2G devices.”
According to him, over 52 percent of telecom users in Nigeria are now on 4G networks, reflecting a steady shift toward smartphone adoption.
Maida also commended the media for its role in strengthening the telecommunications sector, stating that coverage has helped the Commission implement policies, keep the public informed, and ensure accountability.
He highlighted ongoing initiatives such as the tariff simplification directive, the major outage reporting portal, and corporate governance guidelines currently under a 24-month compliance window set to expire in the first quarter of next year.
The NCC boss further revealed that collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser on protecting critical national infrastructure is beginning to yield positive results, particularly in addressing challenges such as fibre cuts that disrupt network services.
