NCC Planning To Deploy 5G Technology In Nigeria

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), says it would be developing a policy for the deployment of the 5th Generation (5G) Technology in the country.

NCC, in a tweet on Thursday, stressed that “5G wireless technology is meant to deliver higher data speeds, ultra-low latency, more reliability, massive network capacity, increased availability, and a more uniform user experience to more users.”

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According to NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, Ikechukwu Adinde, the commission in conjunction with the Mobile Telecommunication Network (MTN) had undergone a 5G trial in the country.

He added that the Commission believes the technology is good for the country.

“In November 2019 embarked on a proof of concept with MTN in six locations; relevant stakeholders, including members of the security agencies , were involved in the trial.

“The Commission considered that the development of the 5th Generation technology would be for socio-economic development of Nigeria and would consistently promote a national digital economy for a digital Nigeria that will improve the way Nigerians live and work,” Adinde announced.

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As such, Adinde stressed that the Commission as well as other relevant authorities would fine-tune the policy that would provide the platform for a successful 5G deployment in the country.

“In view of the successful completion of the trial and a directive from the Honorable Minister Of Communication and Digital Economy, the Commission commenced the development of a policy for the development of 5G in Nigeria.

“The Ministry of Communication andu Digital Economy, Office of the National Security Adviser, Ministry Of Health, National Environmental Standards and Enforcement Agency, Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria, are among the stakeholders that will make input into this policy,” he added.

Meanwhile, he maintained that “5G will not be deployed in Nigeria until the policy is concluded and approved.”

However, a prominent cleric, Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, of Christ Embassy, in April, had warned that despite the capabilities of the 5G technology, experts should also vet the health risks associated with it.

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“If there are health risks, they should be fixed. We want to go on extraordinary technology but we must also consider all the health implications. That’s my point,” he said.

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