Nigeria takes a step forward as NCC embraces 6GHz Band for Wi-Fi-6 at stakeholders’ forum

In a significant move for the telecommunications sector, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) held its Annual Stakeholders’ Consultative Forum on Emerging Technologies on September 19, 2024.

The event marked Nigeria’s entry into the global arena of countries utilizing the 6GHz band for Wi-Fi-6 applications.

Delivering the keynote address on behalf of Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of NCC, Engr. Abraham Oshadami welcomed participants and emphasized the importance of this initiative in enhancing telecommunications service delivery in Nigeria.

“This historic event aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision for a progressive digital landscape,” he stated.

Dr. Maida’s speech outlined the NCC’s strategic focus areas, which aim to leverage opportunities for various stakeholders, including licensees, consumers, and the government.

He highlighted collaboration, data compliance, and digitalization as critical factors driving the Commission’s objectives.

With the 6GHz band spanning from 5925 MHz to 7125 MHz, the NCC aims to address the escalating demand for high-speed internet and advanced applications.

“Wi-Fi plays a crucial role in the distribution of fixed broadband connectivity, essential for both homes and enterprises,” Maida explained.

He noted that existing 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands are increasingly congested, necessitating the exploration of new frequency bands.

Maida stated: “I am particularly glad to be associated with this process because when the Government of His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR brought us on board in the year 2023, we decided to reposition the Commission on a path that will ensure the uptake of opportunities through our strategic focus areas which is driven by the recognition that each of our stakeholders whether it is our Licensees & Industry operators, Consumers or Government maintains unique perspective and have certain expectations of as the Commission.

“Therefore, to accomplish our objectives in driving our strategic goals, the Commission identified some key factors, which include people, collaboration data, compliance, and Digitalization.

“Guided by our actions in the right direction and, of course, that of the Federal Government through the Ministers Strategic Blueprint cantered around knowledge policies, infrastructure, innovation, entrepreneurship and Capital as well as Trade, we have been able to set the ball rolling to enhance telecommunication service delivery in Nigeria.

“In line with one of the key factors of collaboration, as outlined in our focus areas and the Commission’s traditionally institutionalized policy of participatory regulation and the practice of industry-wide consultations in conducting its regulatory functions, we are here again to elicit your comments and inputs on the use of the 6GHz for Wi-Fi – 6 and International Mobile Telecommunications (MT).”

The recent allocation of the 6GHz band during the 2023 World Radiocommunications Conference (WRC-23) in Dubai paves the way for Wi-Fi and International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT) applications.

This decision underscores the global momentum towards expanding the available spectrum to meet modern connectivity needs.

The forum served as a platform for stakeholders to provide input on the proposed use of the 6GHz band, fostering a collaborative approach to regulatory decisions.

“We believe that informed decisions must consider the insights of all industry stakeholders,” Oshadami concluded.

As Nigeria embraces these emerging technologies, the NCC is committed to ensuring that the country remains at the forefront of digital innovation and connectivity.