Technology
NCC set to deploy 5G network
- As FG Steps Up Plans For Improved Connectivity
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has said it is ready to activate the 5G network following the positive outcome of thorough investigations, research, and trials absolving the technology of posing security or health threat to consumers.
This assurance was expressed by the Executive Vice-Chairman/Chief Executive Officer (EVC/CEO) of the commission, Prof. Umar Danbatta.
The Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy recently disclosed that Nigeria is 95 per cent set to deploy the Fifth Generation Network (5G) for increased connectivity in the country.
The NCC boss, who fielded questions from Mr. Bitrus Bako Nabasu, new Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy, during a presentation Wednesday, August 25, 2021, in Abuja, observed that the Commission as a Federal agency has always aligned its position and plan with the Federal Government.
Danbatta stated: “On the 5G, the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr. Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, has spoken about the Federal Government’s position to deploy as soon as possible.
“Our state of readiness is very high. There’s an Auction Committee for 5G with a deployment plan ready. As you know, without a plan you cannot have a successful deployment.”
“All we are asking is an additional spectrum to be allocated by the National Frequency Management Council (NFMC). Of course, some of these spectrums are ready but we have to get the Federal Government’s approval to go ahead with the auctions.”
While intimating Mr. Nabasu with the Commission’s forthcoming book launch, scheduled for early next month, the EVC noted that the book, which is technical, will provide more insight into the workings of the telecoms regulator under his watch.
Prof. Danbatta, EVC/CEO of NCC
“I have spoken about the first Strategic Vision Plan (SVP), comprising 8 agenda items. The SVP has come to the end, and we have written a book providing documented progress we have made while implementing it.
“I am pleased to inform you that the book will be unveiled on 7th September 2021,” he revealed.
Danbatta also commended Dr. Pantami for his efforts at resolving some of the perennial challenges in the industry, especially the Right of Way (RoW) charges.
The NCC CEO urged governments at every level in Nigeria to respect the resolution of the National Economic Council (NEC) on the harmonised RoW charges to enable the industry to continue to grow and prosper.
He further stated: “The Commission will continue to put in its best in the discharge of its mandate, especially in facilitating the deployment of broadband infrastructure, which is central to diversifying the Nigerian economy and national development.
“It’s our belief also that the communications industry, under the leadership of the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy, will experience more quantum leap and retain its current flagship role in the telecommunication space.”