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The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced plans to harness the 6GHz spectrum to boost internet speed and connectivity across the country. This initiative was revealed at a Stakeholders’ Consultative Forum on Emerging Technologies held in Lagos, aimed at addressing the rising demand for high-speed internet services.
The 6GHz spectrum, which ranges from 5.925 GHz to 7.125 GHz, is primarily used for wireless communication technologies, such as Wi-Fi 6E and other advanced systems. By adopting this spectrum, Nigeria joins other African nations like South Africa and Morocco, who are leveraging the 6GHz band to enhance their digital infrastructure.
Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, explained that the deployment of the 6GHz spectrum is critical to overcoming the limitations of existing 5GHz and 2.4GHz frequency bands. Represented by the Executive Commissioner of Technical Services, Abraham Oshadami, Maida emphasized that the 6GHz spectrum provides significantly faster data rates and higher transmission speeds, making it essential for supporting Nigeria’s rapidly expanding digital economy.
“The adoption of this spectrum is key to keeping Nigeria in line with global developments in wireless communication,” Maida stated. He highlighted that the 6GHz band would enable Nigeria to better support emerging technologies and applications, including Wi-Fi 6, which offers improved performance and efficiency for connected devices.
The integration of the 6GHz band is expected to alleviate existing network congestion and offer a more reliable and robust internet experience for users. Maida noted that the spectrum’s wide range—from 5925 MHz to 7125 MHz—adds substantial capacity for handling the growing demand for high-speed internet and advanced applications in homes, businesses, and public spaces.
“Wi-Fi plays an essential role in delivering fixed broadband services to homes, offices, and various environments. A majority of internet traffic in homes is facilitated through Wi-Fi,” Maida added. He further explained that in enterprise settings, Wi-Fi is critical for managing large data volumes, connecting multiple devices, and ensuring faster, more reliable communication with reduced latency.
Gbenga Adebayo, Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecom Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), called on the Federal Government to assist telecom operators in transitioning to the new 6GHz spectrum. Represented by the Executive Secretary of ALTON, Gbolahan Awonuga, Adebayo stressed the financial challenges operators face in expanding their networks and upgrading infrastructure.
“Our members are facing difficulties in expanding their infrastructure and upgrading to the new spectrum. We appeal to the Federal Government to provide support,” Adebayo urged, emphasizing the need for funding to import equipment and strengthen the telecom industry’s capabilities.
By embracing the 6GHz spectrum, the NCC is positioning Nigeria to improve its digital infrastructure, meet the increasing demands for high-speed internet, and stay competitive in the global digital landscape.
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