In a strategic move to boost nationwide internet access and improve broadband quality, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is set to release a comprehensive five-year national spectrum strategy this November. Spearheaded by Executive Vice Chairman Aminu Maida, this plan will serve as a blueprint for the allocation, management, and optimisation of Nigeria’s limited spectrum resources, aligning with the objectives of the National Broadband Plan 2020-2025.
During a conversation at the Moonshot event hosted by TechCabal, Maida illustrated spectrum as an “invisible highway” that facilitates data transmission between telecom networks and end-user devices. He compared it to a network of highways with a fixed number of lanes, emphasizing the necessity of efficient management to avoid bottlenecks and maintain optimal service delivery.
“Traditionally, spectrum bands have been distributed through auctions or administrative assignments,” Maida noted. “However, it’s equally important to ensure that these allocations are actively utilised. Spectrum lying dormant in a country with escalating connectivity needs represents a lost opportunity.”
The forthcoming roadmap will forecast Nigeria’s spectrum requirements for the next five years, ensuring compliance with international standards set by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). “Adhering to global benchmarks is vital so that manufacturers and infrastructure providers can develop compatible devices and equipment for seamless operation across different markets,” Maida explained.
Addressing longstanding issues in spectrum management, the plan aims to resolve problems such as underused frequency bands and fragmented spectrum ownership. Maida acknowledged that some previous allocations were granted to operators lacking the capacity to deploy services effectively, leading to unused spectrum assets.
“There have been instances where spectrum was allocated but not optimally utilised,” he said. “To tackle this, we are promoting spectrum trading, allowing operators to lease or sell unused frequencies to those better positioned to deploy them efficiently.”
This initiative to foster a secondary spectrum market is already bearing fruit, exemplified by the recent spectrum sharing agreement between 9mobile and MTN, facilitated by the NCC to ensure uninterrupted services and market stability. Maida revealed that further spectrum transactions and policy enhancements are imminent. “Our data clearly indicates a strong link between spectrum availability and broadband performance,” he added. “Activating idle spectrum will directly enhance user experience.”
Currently, Nigeria’s mobile broadband landscape is predominantly supported by 4G technology, with 5G services limited to metropolitan hubs like Lagos and Abuja. The new spectrum roadmap is expected to accelerate the expansion of 4G networks and gradually extend 5G coverage, particularly targeting underserved rural communities.
Maida stressed that the regulator’s primary mission is to foster sustainable connectivity that benefits both service providers and consumers. “As an economic regulator, we must ensure investments are viable,” he stated. “At the same time, Nigerians deserve reliable and high-quality connectivity, which has become as essential as healthcare and other fundamental services.”
Ultimately, the NCC’s five-year spectrum strategy will lay the groundwork for efficient spectrum utilisation, fair access, and a more robust broadband infrastructure, positioning Nigeria for a digitally inclusive future beyond 2025.