The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced steps to tap into the 6GHz spectrum, aiming to boost internet speed and address growing demand for high-speed connectivity across the country.

This was disclosed by the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, during a Stakeholders’ Consultative Forum on Emerging Technologies held in Lagos on Thursday.

Maida, represented by the Executive Commissioner of Technical Services, Abraham Oshadami, highlighted the need for the upgrade as the existing 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands face capacity limitations.

“The deployment of the 6GHz spectrum has become necessary to enhance data rates and transmission speeds,” Maida said.

He added that Nigeria would join other nations already utilizing the 6GHz band, particularly for Wi-Fi 6 applications, which offer higher data throughput and lower latency.

The 6GHz spectrum, spanning from 5925 MHz to 7125 MHz, is expected to significantly increase the available bandwidth, crucial for supporting the demand for high-speed internet and emerging technologies.

Maida noted that Wi-Fi remains essential for distributing broadband connectivity in homes, businesses, and public spaces.

Similarly, Atiku Lawal, Head of Spectrum Administration at NCC, emphasized the importance of opening the 6GHz spectrum, citing that over 70 countries have already moved to adopt it for unlicensed Wi-Fi use.

Lawal explained that this move would support the implementation of Wi-Fi 6, which will accommodate advanced use cases such as high-definition video and extended reality (XR).

“The NCC’s decision will revolutionize broadband connectivity in Nigeria, offering faster, more reliable internet services and relieving capacity constraints on existing networks,” Lawal remarked.

The initiative has been welcomed by industry stakeholders, with the Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Gbenga Adebayo, urging the federal government to support telecom operators in upgrading their infrastructure to utilize the new spectrum.

As mobile data usage continues to rise globally, the 6GHz spectrum is seen as key to unlocking faster speeds and enabling 5G advancements, positioning Nigeria for future digital transformation.

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