Nigeria's telecom association ALTON blames apps for surge in mobile data use

The Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) said that the rapid growth in mobile data consumption is driven by smartphone applications, automatic software updates, cloud backups, video streaming, social‑media autoplay and location services. ALTON chairman Gbenga Adebayo made the comments at a Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry conference, adding that emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and cloud computing will further increase demand for reliable connectivity and network capacity.

Adebayo urged consumers to improve digital literacy, monitor app activity and adjust device settings to control data use. He rejected accusations that telecom operators deliberately deplete customers' data, noting that billing systems are internationally standardised, transparent and overseen by the Nigerian Communications Commission.