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NCC Engages Stakeholders on Spectrum Roadmap for 2026–2030, to Drive Nigeria’s Digital Future

L-R: Deputy Director, Huawei Business Environment/Affairs Nigeria, Dr. Nihinlola Fafore; Head, Spectrum Administration Department, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Engr. Atiku Lawal; Head, Fixed Networks and Converged Services (NCC), Engr. Gidado Maigana Ahmed; Head Spectrum Assignment (NCC), Mr. Abubakar Hammanyaji; Country Lead, Digital Access Program, Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), Mr. Idongesit Udo; Head, Spectrum Planning, (NCC), Dr. Joseph Emeshili.

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) on Monday commenced Day One of a high-level stakeholders’ engagement on the Spectrum Roadmap for 2026–2030, with the proposed regulatory guidelines for the use of the 60 GHz band for multi-gigabit wireless systems and the lower portion of the 6 GHz band for Wi-Fi 6 deployment in Nigeria.

The engagement witnessed the convergence of a cross-section of participants from across the telecommunications and digital services ecosystem at the Auditorium of the Communications and Digital Economy Complex, NCC Annex Office, Mbora, in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

Participants in attendance included: network operators, internet service providers, equipment manufacturers, industry associations, policy and regulatory experts, as well as representatives of relevant public and private sector institutions.

The engagement which is designed as a consultative forum, seeks to promote inclusive dialogue and gather industry-wide input on Nigeria’s proposed spectrum management strategy for the 2026–2030 period, as well as focuses on shaping clear, forward-looking regulatory guidelines for the deployment of emerging wireless technologies operating within the 6 GHz and 60 GHz frequency bands.

Discussions on the first day focused on the strategic role of efficient and innovative spectrum allocation in expanding broadband penetration, driving technological innovation, and improving quality of service across the communications sector. Stakeholders brainstormed how effective spectrum planning can support Nigeria’s rapidly growing data ecosystem and strengthen the foundations of the digital economy.

They also explored the significant opportunities presented by the 60 GHz band, particularly its suitability for high-capacity, short-range, multi-gigabit wireless systems capable of supporting dense urban connectivity and enterprise solutions.

In the same vein, other deliberations highlighted the importance of opening the lower part of the 6 GHz band to support Wi-Fi 6 technology, which is expected to boost network efficiency, reduce congestion, and deliver faster and more reliable internet access to consumers and businesses.