NCC Gives Unlicensed Operators 14 Days to Vacate 5.4GHz Band

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has warned that the 5.4 GHz frequency band spanning 5.430 – 5.725 GHz range is a licensed frequency in Nigeria.

The Commission therefore issued a 14-day ultimatum to telecom operators, private/public organizations and the public, who are unauthorized users to vacate the frequency band.

According to a statement obtained by BUSINESS METRICS on Monday, signed by Reuben Muoka, director, Public Affairs Department, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), which reads:

“Therefore, the transmission of signals or use of equipment in any form on this band without a Frequency license obtained from the Commission is illegal.

“All telecommunications service providers, private/public organizations or any person(s) using this band in any location across the country should note that pursuant to Section 122 of the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA), 2003, it is a criminal offence to operate in any frequency not duly assigned by the Commission.

“The consequences of such act may lead to imprisonment, sanction and confiscation of equipment used in operating the illegal services.

“In view of the above, the Commission hereby gives a 14-day enforcement notice to all unlicensed operators on the 5.4GHz frequency band, spanning 5.430 725GHz to, forthwith, vacate and desist from further transmission of signals or use of equipment in any form on this band without authorization obtained Commission.

“The Commission shall, without further recourse and upon expiration of the stipulated deadline, commence appropriate enforcement action including, but not limited to, prosecution, fine, and confiscation of equipment used in the illegal transmission of services.

“A detailed regulatory provision for the deployment of services on the entire 5GHz band is contained in the Guidelines for Deployment of Broadband Services on the 5.2-5.9GHz band. This is available at www.ncc.gov.ng, under Licensing and Regulation (Regulatory Functions) for guidance.

“This is a pre-enforcement notice”.