…Pantami claims that by 2022, Nigeria would have the largest 5G coverage in Africa.
At around 11 a.m. today, the much-anticipated 3.5 GHz Spectrum auction for the deployment of 5G technology and services in Nigeria began.
The auction began after a brief ceremony during which the Minister of Communication and Digital Economy, Professor Isa Ibrahim Pantami, the Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) board of directors, Professor Adeolu Akande, and the NCC’s Executive Vice Chairman, Professor Umar Danbatta, addressed the participants and observers on the importance of the spectrum auction.
Pantami traced the trip from 2019, when 5G technology was tested in Lagos, Abuja, and other Nigerian cities and deemed to be suitable and desirable for the country, until today. He also reminded the audience that the test was followed by a probe into concerns that the technology was harmful to people’s health. According to the findings of the inquiry, 5G technology poses no health risks.
He believes that by 2022, Nigeria would have the most extensive 5G coverage in Africa. He also believes that 5G will be able to address some of the country’s security issues, as the technology provides real-time services and platforms.
Pantami further stated that 5G will contribute significantly to Nigeria’s economic development, as digital technology is a vital facilitator of other sectors, particularly the financial industry.
He requested that the auction be transparent, fair, and just to all stakeholders, as the Buhari administration values fairness and justice.
Professor Adeolu Akande, Chairman of the NCC Board of Directors, stated that the 3.5 GHz Spectrum auction was held to facilitate the deployment of 5G technology in Nigeria for the benefit of Nigerians.
MTN Nigeria, Airtel Nigeria, and Mafab Communications, all of which showed an interest in participating in the auction, are all present.
MTN’s Chief Executive Officer, Karl Toriola, led the team, while Mafab Communications’ chairman, Alhaji Musibau Bashir, led the Mafab Communications team, and Airtel’s Chief Financial Officer, Mr S. Krishna Menon, led the Airtel team.
In preparation for the actual auction, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) successfully conducted a mock session for the 3.5 gigahertz (GHz) spectrum auction for the deployment of the country’s Fifth Generation (5G) network on Friday, December 10.
