The true explanation behind the disappearance of user data in Nigeria
In recent times, Nigerian internet users have been grappling with the perplexing issue of data that seems to vanish faster than expected. This article delves into the complexities of this problem, exploring both infrastructure-related factors and user behavior.
## Reasons for Disappearing Data
The issue is multifaceted, with several contributing factors. One significant factor is the recent increase in data prices, leading users to be more cautious with their data usage, giving the impression that they are losing data due to increased costs[1][3]. Network congestion, particularly in urban areas, can also impact data speeds, making it seem as though data is being used more quickly than expected[1]. Poor network coverage in certain regions can lead to dropped calls and interrupted data sessions, giving the illusion of data disappearing[5]. The decline in internet subscriptions, partly due to increased prices, might also affect user perception of data availability[1][3].
## Infrastructure Issues
The capacity of mobile networks, especially in areas with high demand, can be insufficient to handle the load, leading to inefficiencies in data delivery[1]. Significant losses in ISP subscribers, such as those using Starlink and Spectranet, could indicate broader infrastructure or service quality issues affecting data availability[5]. Inadequate maintenance or delays in upgrading network infrastructure can lead to service interruptions and perceived data wastage[1].
## Mitigating the Problem
Users can take several steps to manage their data usage, such as regularly checking data usage through provider apps or settings, using data-saving features on apps, and reporting network issues to service providers[2]. However, these measures do not address the deeper infrastructure problem. Improving network infrastructure and capacity, along with strategic pricing policies, could help alleviate the problem of "disappearing" data[6].
The article also highlights three overlooked reasons for data disappearing faster than expected: unoptimized mobile networks, uncontrolled data usage by apps, and a lack of transparency in data usage[7]. These issues are likened to an inefficient query bogging down a database, causing slow response, timeouts, and rising infrastructure costs[8].
Tomiwa Erinosho, PhD, an engineer and product builder with a passion for solving data, infrastructure, and efficiency challenges across emerging markets, has written extensively on this topic. In his work, he compares the experience of loading a web page in Nigeria to being stuck in Lagos traffic at rush hour, describing it as slow, chaotic, and data-consuming[9].
The lack of investment in caching and load balancing, and the high pricing for subpar connectivity, are important questions that need to be addressed for better outcomes[10].
On a brighter note, the Moonshot event by our website is returning to Lagos on October 15-16, featuring top founders, creatives, and tech leaders. Early bird tickets are now 20% off[4].
[1] https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2021/09/13/ncc-to-review-data-prices-as-nga-consumers-groan/ [2] https://www.techcabal.com/2021/09/24/how-to-check-your-data-balance-on-mtn-9mobile-airtel-glo-and-other-networks-in-nigeria/ [3] https://www.vanguardngr.com/2021/09/data-price-hikes-as-nga-consumers-groan/ [4] https://www.moonshot.ng [5] https://www.vanguardngr.com/2021/09/spectranet-to-exit-nigerian-market-in-q4-2021/ [6] https://www.techcabal.com/2021/09/16/how-to-improve-your-internet-connection-in-nigeria/ [7] https://www.techcabal.com/2021/09/24/three-overlooked-reasons-for-data-disappearing-faster-than-expected-in-nigeria/ [8] https://www.techcabal.com/2021/09/24/three-overlooked-reasons-for-data-disappearing-faster-than-expected-in-nigeria/ [9] https://www.techcabal.com/2021/09/24/three-overlooked-reasons-for-data-disappearing-faster-than-expected-in-nigeria/ [10] https://www.techcabal.com/2021/09/24/three-overlooked-reasons-for-data-disappearing-faster-than-expected-in-nigeria/
- The rising cost of mobile data and the lack of investment in data-and-cloud-computing technology, such as caching and load balancing, could be significant factors contributing to the issue of data vanishing faster than expected in Nigeria.
- To tackle the pervasive problem of "disappearing" data in Nigeria, it is crucial to address infrastructure issues, including improving the capacity of mobile networks and addressing strategic pricing policies, as well as adopting efficient data management practices, such as using data-saving features on mobile devices and reporting network issues to service providers.
