Multi-sector policy framework to clear ground for 5G adoption in Nigeria, says NCC

Saviour Adugba

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has disclosed it plans to set up a multi-sector policy framework for the adoption of the 5G network.

Umar Danbatta, the executive vice-chairman of the NCC, said while delivering a speech titled, “Multi-Stakeholder Approach to National Recovery Post-Pandemic” at the just-concluded conference organised by the Nigeria ICT Reporters.

The EVC noted that the commission is looking to employ 5G as part of its Post-COVID-19 recovery plans.

Danbatta stated that the NCC’s drive to expand telecommunications capabilities in the country would trigger many socio-economic benefits particularly with the rollout of 5G.

“The Commission is vigorously working to establish a policy for 5G with multi-sector Stakeholders, including the Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy, Nigerian Society of Engineers, NSE, Nigerian Medical Association, NMA, the academia, Office of the National Security Adviser, ONSA, Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria, ALTON, Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria, ATCON, Industry Consultative Advisory Forum, ICAF, and a host of others,” Danbatta said.

“Our goal is that when the Federal Government is able to establish a policy that will drive 5G, all the benefits of 5G will be properly harnessed by Nigerians. The Commission is also working to ensure the safety of 5G networks in Nigeria by having a multi-stakeholder approach in environmental impact analysis on the use of 5G and the Electromagnetic Fields, EMF, impact on humans in Nigeria,” he continued.

The executive vice-chairman said that once all these things are put in place, Nigerians will enjoy the benefits of 5G safely.

Danbatta further said that the NCC will go ahead with its work and collaborations with key stakeholders and partners in the ICT industry to make sure that the country continues to meet the ever-increasing connectivity demand.