Nigeria Minister of Communications Clarifies on 5G License

The Minister of Communications and Digital Economy Dr Isa Ali Ibrahim (Pantami), has clarified that no license has been issued for the deployment of Fifth Generation (5G) network services in Nigeria.

Pantami gave the clarification in a press statement released over the weekend.

According to the statement, he said that his attention has been drawn to the public concern about the health implications of the deployment of Fifth Generation Mobile Networks (5G) in Nigeria and based on available records he clarified as follows:

“The National Frequency Management Council (NFMC), of which I am the Chairman, has not deliberated on or released any bulk frequency spectrum for the deployment of 5G;

“No license has been issued for the deployment of 5G in the country;

“A 3-month study trial commenced on the 25th of November, 2019 in order to critically review and study the health and security implications of deploying 5G in Nigeria;

“As part of the study trial process, I directed the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to ensure that a team of experts, security agencies and other stakeholders fully participate in the trial process and my office also invited these agencies to participate in the trial; and

“The trial process has been concluded and the study and reporting process is currently ongoing.”

He further stated that president, Muhammadu Buhari, places a premium on the welfare, health and security of Nigerians.

“As such, our desire for technological advancement will never be at the expense of the health and welfare of our citizens,” he declared.

Pantami assured that FG will not act on the speculations only, but rather we will make an informed decision on 5G after due consultation with experts and the public.

“I have also directed the NCC to engage citizens on any questions or concerns they may have regarding 5G.

“We advise you all to remain to rest assured that government will always take the welfare, health and security of the public into account while considering the deployment of any technology,” he assured.