Dina Tsybulskaya, the Chief Executive Officer of eSIM Plus, has attributed the sluggish adoption of eSIM technology in Nigeria to several factors, including the high cost of eSIM-compatible phones and cumbersome SIM activation processes for foreigners.
According to Tsybulskaya, the relatively high prices of eSIM-compatible devices have hindered swift adoption in Nigeria. However, she anticipates that as the retail prices of these devices decrease, there will be a corresponding increase in eSIM market penetration.
Another obstacle identified by Tsybulskaya is the pricing structure for mobile internet services in Nigeria, particularly in terms of roaming charges, which she describes as among the highest globally. This, she explains, presents a significant financial burden to international visitors and Nigerians traveling abroad.
Additionally, Tsybulskaya highlights the challenges faced by foreigners in activating local SIM cards in Nigeria as another barrier to eSIM adoption. Despite these challenges, she expresses optimism about the opportunities for eSIM growth in Nigeria, especially considering the country’s burgeoning economy and strategic importance in the telecom industry.
Tsybulskaya suggests that forging partnerships with local Nigerian and pan-African wholesale providers could lead to cost savings for international visitors and outbound Nigerian travelers seeking roam-like-home solutions.
She notes that the global eSIM market is projected to reach $16.3 billion by 2027, with an estimated 80% of smartphones functioning with eSIMs by 2030. Apple’s recent move to roll out eSIMs on all its new releases is also expected to drive adoption further.
In Nigeria, the eSIM journey began in 2020 when the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) approved MTN and 9mobile to commence a trial of the technology. Both operators have since fully launched the service, allowing customers with compatible phones to use eSIMs instead of physical SIM cards. Airtel also joined in January 2023 by launching its eSIM service.
