5G deployment: NFMC formally hands over 3.5GHz spectrum to NCC

By Ibiyemi Mathew

The National Frequency Management Council (NFMC) has formally handed over the 3.5GHz spectrum allocation for the deployment of Fifth Generation (5G) Networks to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).

In a ceremony that had in attendance the  Chairman of the Council and Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Professor Isa Pantami,Chairman Governing Board of NCC, Professor Adeolu Akande and the Executive Vice Chairman Professor Umar Garba Danbatta, the official handover was held.

Addressing participants at the event, Pantami recalled that the country’s journey to the actualisation of 5G was fraught with challenges many of which were superstitious and unscientific.

“Amidst health rumors linking 5G to the source and spread of COVID-19, the Federal Government took deliberate, painstaking steps to ensure its safety through trials, expert reviews and advice from professional and relevant authorities and stakeholders because the safety of our citizens is our priority.”

Pantami emphasised the need for Nigeria to take its pride of place in the fourth industrial revolution by exploring the tools of digital technology.

He highlighted some of the benefits of 5G to include enhanced security, transparency, agricultural boost among others.

The Minister also called on all stakeholders to ensure the implementation of the National Policy of 5G for Nigeria’s Digital Economy while also unveiling the public presentation of the National Policy on Fifth Generation Networks for Nigeria’s Digital Economy.