The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced a significant initiative to harness the 6GHz spectrum to boost internet speed and connectivity across the country. This strategic move was unveiled at a Stakeholders’ Consultative Forum on Emerging Technologies held in Lagos, where industry experts gathered to discuss the growing demand for high-speed internet services.
Spanning from 5.925 GHz to 7.125 GHz, the 6GHz spectrum is particularly well-suited for wireless communications, including the latest Wi-Fi 6E technology and other advanced applications. With this development, Nigeria joins South Africa and Morocco as one of the pioneering African nations to implement the 6GHz band.
Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, emphasized the necessity of this initiative, citing capacity constraints on the existing 5GHz and 2.4GHz bands. Represented by Abraham Oshadami, Executive Commissioner of Technical Services, Maida highlighted the 6GHz band’s potential for significantly faster data rates and transmission speeds, essential for accommodating Nigeria's expanding digital landscape.
“The adoption of the 6GHz spectrum is crucial for supporting emerging technologies and ensuring that Nigeria keeps pace with global advancements in wireless communication,” Maida stated. He pointed out that the integration of the 6GHz band will alleviate network congestion and enhance the overall internet experience for users, especially in high-density areas.
In enterprise settings, the 6GHz spectrum is expected to improve data management capabilities, allowing for simultaneous connections of multiple devices with greater reliability, higher speeds, and reduced latency.
However, the Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecom Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Gbenga Adebayo, called for increased support from the Federal Government for telecom operators to facilitate their transition to the new 6GHz spectrum.
Speaking on his behalf, Executive Secretary Gbolahan Awonuga highlighted the financial challenges operators face in upgrading their infrastructure. “Our members are grappling with financial constraints that hinder network expansion. We urge the Federal Government to provide the necessary support,” Adebayo stated.
The NCC’s move to activate the 6GHz spectrum aligns with global trends, as more than 70 countries have already acted or are considering opening the band for unlicensed Wi-Fi use. Atiku Lawal, Ag. Head of Spectrum Administration at the NCC noted that expanding the unlicensed use of the 6GHz band will enhance Quality of Service (QoS) through Wi-Fi 6 technology, thereby reducing the load on cellular networks.
