We’ve not deployed 5G network, NCC assures

Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), has refute claims in some quarters that the ongoing digging and fibre optic cable laying in Lagos and other states by some operators are connected to 5G network deployment.

 “As we speak, any information suggesting or claiming that the equipment being deployed by the network operators are 5G equipment is purely misinformation deliberately orchestrated by individuals bent on creating ill-feelings in the industry,” executive vice chairman (EVC) of NCC Professor Umar Garba Danbatta said in a statement signed by NCC director of public affairs Dr Henry Nkemadu.

The EVC called on Nigerians to disregard such “unfounded and ill-motivated” information in its entirety regardless of whoever is making the insinuation.

“As the telecoms regulator, we enjoin Nigerians to get accurate information from us rather than relying on information emanating on social media by some individuals out of ignorance to misinform our people.

According to the EVC, the ongoing digging and fibre optic cable laying by some operators are in accordance to agreements reached during meetings by the  Minister of Communications and Digital Economy Dr Isa Ali Pantami and Management of the NCC with the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF) led by governor of Ekiti state Dr Kayode Fayomi in January 2020, during which the Forum gave its commitment to allow the network operators expand their networks by granting right of way (RoW) approvals for telecommunications infrastructure expansion unhindered across their states.

“This will significantly reduce drop calls and improve networks performance of the operating companies (the Telcos).

He stated that the earth-digging and cable laying activities has nothing to do with 5G deployment and the commission has not commenced any licensing process for 5G.

“What the Commission had carried out was a 5G trial for three months, during which it will be able to certify its safety to end users and guarantee the desirability for deployment in the economy.

“In line with our regulatory process with respect to technology-neutrality, type-approval and other regulations aimed at protecting the citizens and ensuring standards are complied with in the Nigerian telecoms industry, NCC ensures that adequate trial is conducted before a new technology is introduced. This is essentially to ensure public safety. This is a priority for us at NCC,” he said.

The EVC stated that, “Similar trials were carried out by NCC on earlier technologies that we use today, ranging from 2G, 3G and 4G.” 

Leave a Reply