The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has initiated steps to utilize the 6GHz spectrum for faster internet speeds across Nigeria.
Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of NCC, made this announcement during a Stakeholders’ Consultative Forum on Emerging Technologies held in Lagos.
Maida highlighted that the move would address the rising demand for high-speed internet in the country, as the current 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands are facing capacity limitations.
“The 6GHz band offers substantial spectrum that is vital for supporting growing internet needs and advanced applications,” he said.
Representing Maida at the forum, Abraham Oshadami, NCC’s Executive Commissioner of Technical Services, explained that Nigeria would join other nations utilizing the 6GHz band for Wi-Fi 6, a new technology designed to offer faster, more reliable internet connectivity.
Oshadami emphasized the crucial role of Wi-Fi in delivering fixed broadband connectivity to homes, offices, and various enterprises, particularly as the demand for high-speed internet continues to rise.
“Wi-Fi handles large volumes of data and connects multiple devices simultaneously, improving reliability and lowering latency,” he noted.
Atiku Lawal, the Head of Spectrum Administration at NCC, echoed these sentiments, stressing that current airwave congestion was limiting Wi-Fi potential in the 2.4GHz and 5GHz ranges.
“More than seventy countries have already taken steps to open the 6GHz band for unlicensed Wi-Fi use,” Lawal said, pointing out that this would provide up to three times the current available spectrum, ideal for handling high-demand applications like high-definition video and XR (extended reality). He described the commission’s move as a game-changer for broadband connectivity in Nigeria.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Gbenga Adebayo, urged the federal government to assist operators in upgrading their infrastructure to take advantage of the 6GHz band.
Represented by Gbolahan Awonuga, ALTON’s Executive Secretary, Adebayo pointed to the financial challenges faced by operators in expanding their networks. “We need government support to upgrade and import necessary equipment to fully benefit from the 6GHz band,” he stated.
The GSMA, a global mobile network industry body, has also called on governments to allocate the 6GHz band for mobile use, viewing it as key to driving future connectivity and economic growth.