NCC Moves To Unlock New Spectrum Bands, Boost Broadband Investment
By Stella Enenche, Abuja
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has begun stakeholder consultations on the Spectrum Roadmap 2026–2030 to unlock new spectrum bands, expand broadband capacity, and provide regulatory certainty for telecoms investment.
Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, at the consultation forum on Monday in Abuja, said the roadmap would provide a clear and predictable framework for spectrum use.
Maida who was represented by the Head of Spectrum Administration, Mr. Atiku Lawal said it would enable operators to invest confidently while improving quality of service nationwide.
The EVC said Nigeria’s rising data consumption, driven by mobile broadband, digital services, and smart technologies, requires forward-looking spectrum planning.
“Our ambition is faster speeds, wider coverage, better service quality, and inclusive access. The Spectrum Roadmap 2026–2030 sets out how spectrum will be managed to support these goals,” he said.
He disclosed that the consultations also cover guidelines to open the lower 6 GHz band for Wi-Fi 6 deployment and the 60 GHz licence-exempt band for multi-gigabit wireless systems moves expected to ease congestion on existing networks and support high-capacity connectivity in homes, campuses, businesses, and public spaces.
According to Maida, spectrum remains the foundation of Nigeria’s digital economy, powering mobile networks, broadband services, digital finance platforms, emergency communications, and emerging technologies.
“We are preparing Nigeria for the data demands of tomorrow, not only on mobile networks but across the entire digital ecosystem,” he said.
In a keynote address, the Executive Commissioner, Technical Services, Mr. Abraham Oshadami represented by Mr. Gidado Maigana said the roadmap would ensure spectrum resources are allocated fairly and in line with national development priorities.
“Our goal is to ensure that spectrum serves every community and that broadband expansion is guided by foresight and equity,” he said.
Earlier, Lawal described the Spectrum Roadmap 2026–2030 as a strategic policy tool rather than a purely technical document, noting that it would shape Nigeria’s digital growth over the next decade.
