FG Releases Important Info On 5G Deployment In Nigeria

A new update concerning the 5G network has been released by the federal government.

Recall that the President Muhammadu Buhari-led government on Wednesday approved the National Policy on fifth-generation (5G) networks for the country’s digital economy during the weekly Federal Executive Council.

In a statement made available to newsmen on Friday, the Honourable Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Prof. Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, revealed that the roll-out of the 5G network will be carried out in phases beginning with major cities in the country.

The minister noted that cities with the need for high-quality broadband would be considered first for installation. Pantami directed the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to commence immediate implementation of the 5G plan for the country.

The NCC is expected to publish and implement a roadmap for the deployment of 5G across the country with service roll-out obligations.

In addition, the Commission has been directed to commence the development of relevant regulatory instruments to address issues related to health, safety, and others to drive effective implementation of the roll-out of 5G by Mobile Network Operators (MNOs).

The National Frequency Management Council (NFMC) which is also chaired by Pantami, will in no distant time, release the 5G Spectrum to the NCC for auction to MNOs that will need the spectrum for 5G deployment.

Buhari government has expressed confidence that the deployment of 5G network in Nigeria has the objectives of creating an enabling environment for investment in the telecom industry.

The government’s plan is to ensure effective deployment of 5G to cover major urban cities by 2025, among others. In line with the objectives of the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS), 2020-2030 for a Digital Nigeria, and the positioning of Nigeria as an early adopter of digital technology in the growing global digital economy, the successful and timely deployment of 5G is crucial. 5G is expected to facilitate several emerging technologies, generate innovative use cases, spur significant socio-economic growth and create jobs.

Pantami in the statement delivered through Dr. Ikechukwu Adinde, Director, Public Affairs of the ministry, commended President Muhammadu Buhari, the entire FEC members, the National Assembly, as well as other industry stakeholders for their roles and contributions in the journey that culminated in the approval of the 5G implementation for the country.