Advancement Through Research
The telecommunication industry has been regarded as one of the Nigerian economy pillars, just behind the oil and agricultural industries. There is currently a paucity of data to define the extent of influence the telecommunication sector has had from its introduction to date. This study investigates the industry's impact in the 15 past years since the commencement of GSM network service providers' commercial operations on the economy and Nigerians. Our study relied upon primary qualitative data via in-depth interviews with 20 key stakeholders who have been active in the telecommunication and economic sectors throughout the period in review (2004-2019) and available secondary data. Results indicate that the telecommunication sector has contributed to around a-tenth of the country’s Gross Domestic Product, providing millions of jobs directly and indirectly through the value chains. The telecommunication sector was also revealed to enhance the productivity of other sectors like Banking, Stock Exchange, Education, and Trade. It was concluded that the sector has the potential to make more significant impact in the coming years if there is increased investment and enhanced government commitment.
Telecommunication, GSM, Gross Domestic Product, Economy, Nigeria
