NCC advances 6GHz spectrum use for Wi-Fi 6, seeks stakeholder input

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is poised to align with global standards by adopting part of the 6GHz spectrum for Wi-Fi 6 applications, a move that could significantly enhance high-speed internet delivery in the country.

Speaking at the Annual Stakeholders’ Consultative Forum on Emerging Technologies on September 19, 2024, in Lagos, Executive Vice Chairman and CEO, Dr. Aminu Maida, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to harnessing opportunities for Nigeria’s telecom sector.

Delivered by NCC’s Executive Commissioner of Technical Services, Engr. Abraham Oshadami, on behalf of Maida, the speech highlighted the government’s efforts under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to strengthen the Commission’s role in driving digital transformation through strategic focus areas.

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“To achieve our objectives, we have identified key pillars including people, collaboration, data, compliance, and digitalization,” Maida stated, noting that the utilization of the 6GHz band would significantly ease the strain on current Wi-Fi frequencies, such as the overcrowded 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands.

The 6GHz band, ranging from 5925 MHz to 7125 MHz, has the potential to meet the increasing demand for higher data capacity, enabling faster, more reliable connections across homes, enterprises, and public spaces. Maida emphasized that collaboration with industry stakeholders is vital for determining the optimal use of this spectrum.

The adoption of the 6GHz spectrum follows the recommendations of the 2023 World Radiocommunications Conference in Dubai, which assigned the band for both Wi-Fi and International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT) applications.

“We are here to gather your input to guide informed decision-making on the future use of this spectrum,” Maida added, urging for active participation from stakeholders.

The forum, aimed at fostering broad-based consultations, underscores NCC’s commitment to participatory regulation and enhancing Nigeria’s telecommunications infrastructure.