Nigeria Set to Adopt 6GHz Band for Wi-Fi 6 Applications

Nigeria Set to Adopt 6GHz Band for Wi-Fi 6 Applications

L-R: Executive Secretary, Association of Licensed Telecom Operators of Nigeria, Gbolahan Awonuga; Professor of Telecommunications Engineering, Federal University of Technology, Minna, Prof. Caroline Alenoghena; Executive Commissioner, Technical Services, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Abraham Oshadami; Public Policy Manager, Anglophone West Africa, Meta, Sade Dada; Director, Compliance Monitoring and Enforcement, NCC, Efosa Idehen and President, Association of Telecom Companies of Nigeria, Tony Emoekpere, during a Stakeholders’ Consultative Forum on Emerging Technologies hosted by the Commission in Lagos on Thursday (September 19, 2024).

In a landmark move, Nigeria is preparing to join the global community in utilizing the 6GHz band for Wi-Fi 6 applications. This was announced during the Annual Stakeholders’ Consultative Forum on Emerging Technologies, held on September 19, 2024, in Lagos. The address, delivered by Engr. Abraham Oshadami, Executive Commissioner of Technical Services at the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), on behalf of Dr. Aminu Maida, the NCC’s Executive Vice Chairman and CEO, outlined the Commission’s strategic steps to improve telecommunication services in the country.

Dr. Maida highlighted the significance of the 6GHz band, which ranges from 5925 MHz to 7125 MHz, offering a substantial boost in available spectrum. This expanded capacity is essential for meeting the growing demand for high-speed internet and supporting advanced digital applications. Wi-Fi, he noted, plays a critical role in delivering fixed broadband connectivity to homes, offices, and public spaces.

The NCC’s head also emphasized the importance of collaboration, data-driven decision-making, compliance, and digitalization in achieving the Commission’s long-term goals. He acknowledged the contributions and expectations of various stakeholders, including industry operators, consumers, and government bodies, while praising the Federal Government’s support through the Minister’s Strategic Blueprint, which prioritizes knowledge policies, infrastructure development, innovation, entrepreneurship, and trade.

The speech also addressed the limitations of the current 5GHz and 2.4GHz bands, which are increasingly strained due to rising demand. The recently concluded 2023 World Radiocommunications Conference (WRC-23) designated the 6GHz band for Wi-Fi and International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT) applications, providing recommendations for its usage.

Dr. Maida invited stakeholders to share their feedback on the use of the 6GHz band for Wi-Fi 6 and IMT services, ensuring that the NCC’s decisions align with global best practices and incorporate industry input. 

The forum ended with a call for productive discussions as Nigeria prepares to enhance its telecommunications infrastructure with the adoption of the 6GHz band, marking a significant step towards improved service delivery in the digital age.