The rollout of 5G technology in Nigeria has significantly changed the mobile internet experience for many smartphone users. Faster download speeds, smoother video streaming, lower latency, improved online gaming performance, and more reliable internet connectivity are some of the major benefits that come with 5G networks.
Telecommunication companies in Nigeria, including MTN, Airtel, Glo, and 9mobile, have gradually expanded their 5G coverage across various cities and regions. However, many Android users discover that even after purchasing a 5G-compatible smartphone, they are still unable to access 5G services.
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In many cases, the problem is not the network itself. Instead, the issue may be related to device settings, network configuration, software compatibility, SIM card limitations, or lack of coverage.
This guide explains how to enable 5G on Android phones in Nigeria, the requirements for using 5G, how to troubleshoot common problems, and how to maximize your internet performance after activating 5G.
Table of Contents
Understanding What 5G Technology Means
5G stands for Fifth Generation Mobile Network.
It is the latest generation of wireless communication technology designed to deliver faster internet speeds and better network performance than previous technologies.
Compared to older networks such as 3G and 4G, 5G offers:
- Faster downloads
- Faster uploads
- Reduced latency
- Better video streaming
- Improved online gaming
- Better support for smart devices
- Increased network capacity
These improvements help users enjoy a more responsive and efficient internet experience.
Why Many Nigerians Cannot Access 5G Despite Owning A 5G Phone
Many smartphone users assume that purchasing a 5G device automatically guarantees access to 5G services.
This is not always the case.
Several factors determine whether your phone can connect to a 5G network.
Examples include:
- Device compatibility
- SIM card support
- Network coverage
- Android settings
- Carrier configuration
- Software updates
If any of these factors are missing, your device may remain connected to 4G even when 5G service is available nearby.
Requirements Before Enabling 5G On Android Phones
Before attempting to activate 5G, verify that you meet the necessary requirements.
Use A 5G-Compatible Smartphone
This is the most important requirement.
A smartphone designed only for 4G cannot connect to a 5G network regardless of the settings you apply.
Check your device specifications through:
- Manufacturer website
- Device manual
- Phone settings
- Retail packaging
Have A Compatible SIM Card
Most modern SIM cards support 5G.
However, older SIM cards may require replacement.
If your SIM card is several years old, visit your network provider’s office for assistance.
Be Within 5G Coverage Areas
5G service availability depends on location.
If your area does not currently have 5G coverage, your device will automatically use 4G or lower networks.
Install The Latest Software Updates
Manufacturers frequently release updates that improve network compatibility and performance.
Using outdated software may prevent proper 5G functionality.
How To Check If Your Android Phone Supports 5G
Before changing any settings, verify that your device supports 5G.
Method One: Check Device Specifications
Search for your smartphone model online.
Look for:
- 5G support
- Network bands
- Connectivity features
Method Two: Check Phone Settings
Open Settings.
Navigate to:
Network And Internet
Mobile Network
Preferred Network Type
If you see options containing 5G, your device likely supports it.
Method Three: Use Manufacturer Documentation
Most smartphone manufacturers clearly indicate whether a device supports 5G.
How To Enable 5G On Android Phones
The exact process varies slightly depending on the smartphone brand.
The general procedure remains similar.
Step One: Open Device Settings
Launch the Settings application on your smartphone.
Step Two: Select Network And Internet
Depending on your device, this section may be called:
- Connections
- Mobile Network
- SIM Cards And Mobile Networks
Step Three: Tap Mobile Network
Select the SIM card you want to configure if your phone uses multiple SIM cards.
Step Four: Open Preferred Network Type
Locate the network mode settings.
Step Five: Select A 5G Option
Depending on your device, available options may include:
- 5G Auto
- 5G Preferred
- 5G Recommended
- 5G LTE Auto
Choose the option that includes 5G.
Step Six: Restart Your Device
Restarting helps refresh network registration.
After rebooting, your device should attempt to connect to available 5G networks.
How To Enable 5G On Samsung Phones
Samsung devices remain among the most popular Android phones in Nigeria.
Step One
Open Settings.
Step Two
Select Connections.
Step Three
Tap Mobile Networks.
Step Four
Choose Network Mode.
Step Five
Select:
5G LTE 3G 2G Auto Connect
or another option containing 5G.
Step Six
Restart your device.
How To Enable 5G On Xiaomi Phones
Open Settings
Select SIM Cards And Mobile Networks
Choose Preferred Network Type
Select 5G Preferred
Restart Your Device
This allows the new settings to take effect.
How To Enable 5G On Infinix Phones
Open Settings
Select Network And Internet
Tap Mobile Network
Choose Preferred Network Type
Select A 5G Option
Restart Your Device
How To Enable 5G On Tecno Phones
Open Settings
Select Mobile Network
Open Preferred Network Type
Choose 5G Preferred
Restart Your Device
How To Enable 5G On Oppo Phones
Open Settings
Select Mobile Network
Tap Preferred Network Type
Choose A 5G Option
Restart The Device
How To Enable 5G On Vivo Phones
Open Settings
Select Mobile Network
Open SIM Settings
Choose Network Mode
Select 5G
Restart Your Device
How To Confirm That 5G Is Working
After enabling 5G, verify the connection.
Most Android phones display one of the following indicators:
- 5G
- 5G+
- 5G SA
- 5G NSA
These indicators typically appear near the signal bars.
If you only see:
- LTE
- 4G
- H+
your device is not currently connected to a 5G network.
Why Your Phone Still Shows 4G After Enabling 5G
Several issues may prevent successful 5G access.
No 5G Coverage In Your Area
Coverage remains the most common reason.
SIM Card Limitations
Older SIM cards may require replacement.
Carrier Restrictions
Some devices purchased abroad may have carrier-specific limitations.
Unsupported Network Bands
Your device may support 5G but not the frequency bands used by your provider.
Software Problems
Outdated firmware may affect network functionality.
How To Check Whether Your Area Has 5G Coverage
The easiest method is to visit your network provider’s website.
Coverage maps are often available for:
- MTN
- Airtel
- Glo
- 9mobile
You may also contact customer support for coverage confirmation.
How To Improve 5G Signal Strength
Signal quality directly affects internet performance.
Move To Open Areas
Buildings and obstacles can weaken signals.
Stay Near Windows
Indoor coverage sometimes improves near windows.
Avoid Network Congestion
Peak usage periods may reduce speed.
Keep Software Updated
Updates often improve radio performance.
How To Enable 5G Using MTN Nigeria
If you use MTN, ensure:
- Your device supports 5G
- Your SIM supports 5G
- You are within MTN 5G coverage
For optimal configuration, read:
Best 5G APN Settings For MTN Nigeria
How To Enable 5G Using Airtel Nigeria
Airtel subscribers should verify:
- Device compatibility
- Coverage availability
- Network settings
For additional configuration guidance, read:
Best 5G APN Settings For Airtel Nigeria
How To Enable 5G Using Glo Nigeria
Glo subscribers should ensure proper APN configuration and network settings.
Read:
Best 5G APN Settings For Glo Nigeria
How To Enable 5G Using 9mobile Nigeria
9mobile users should confirm network availability and device compatibility.
Read:
Best 5G APN Settings For 9mobile Nigeria
Common Problems After Activating 5G
Some users experience issues even after successful activation.
Battery Drains Faster
5G can consume more power than 4G.
Increased Device Temperature
Heavy network activity may increase device temperature.
Network Switching
Phones may automatically switch between 4G and 5G depending on coverage.
Data Consumption Increases
Faster internet often encourages heavier usage.
How To Reduce Battery Drain While Using 5G
Reduce Screen Brightness
Disable Unnecessary Background Apps
Enable Battery Saver Mode
Use 5G Only When Needed
These adjustments can improve battery life.
How To Improve Internet Speed After Enabling 5G
Several optimization techniques can help.
Restart Your Device Regularly
Update Your APN Settings
Close Background Applications
Maintain Strong Signal Coverage
Install Software Updates
Together, these practices improve performance.
Additional Mobile Internet Troubleshooting Guides
You may find these resources useful:
How To Fix Network Issues On Android Phones MTN Airtel Glo 9mobile
How To Fix Data Not Working On Android All Networks
How To Fix Slow Internet And Network Issues At Home
How To Fix Wi-Fi Connected But No Internet Access
How To Fix Common Android Phone Problems
Why Enabling 5G Properly Can Transform Your Mobile Internet Experience
Activating 5G on an Android smartphone is often straightforward once you understand the necessary requirements. A compatible smartphone, an updated SIM card, available network coverage, correct settings, and updated software are usually all that is required.
When properly configured, 5G technology delivers faster downloads, smoother streaming, lower latency, improved gaming performance, and a better overall internet experience. As 5G coverage continues to expand across Nigeria, more users will be able to enjoy the advantages of next-generation mobile connectivity from their Android devices.
Written by Akindele Akinfenwa — Founder of Smsmobile24.com.
