NCC Unveils 6GHz Frequency to Boost Wi-Fi Connectivity

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has taken a huge step forward in boosting connectivity by opening up the 6GHz frequency band for unlicensed Wi-Fi use. This move is expected to enhance wireless network capabilities, providing faster and more reliable internet services.

Unlocking the 6GHz band, the NCC aims to increase the availability of spectrum for Wi-Fi, thereby supporting the growing demand for wireless connectivity. This development is particularly significant for operators who have been advocating for Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) to expand their networks to underserved and unserved areas.

The executive vice chairman/chief executive officer(CEO), Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida, at the Annual Stakeholders Consultative Forum on Emerging Technologies, on Thursday, in Lagos expressed that the Commission has identified some key factors, which include people, collaboration data, compliance, and digitalization in driving strategic focus as Nigeria is set to join the league of countries already utilizing part of the 6GHz band for Wi-Fi -6 applications.

According to him, one of the key factors on collaboration as outlined in our focus areas and the Commission’s traditionally institutionalized policy of participatory regulation and the practice of industry-wide consultations in conducting its regulatory functions, we are here again to elicit your comments and inputs on the use of the 6GHz for Wi-Fi – 6 and International Mobile Telecommunications (MT).

He stressed, in line with global best practices, we sincerely believe that our actions must be guided by decisions that take into cognizance the inputs from all stakeholders in the industry. The 6GHz band, spanning from 5925 MHz to 7125 MHz, offers a substantial increase in available spectrum, which is crucial for supporting the growing demand for high-speed internet and advanced applications Wi-Fi plays a crucial role in the distribution of fixed broadband connectivity in homes, offices, and various other environments.

The vast majority of home internet traffic is connected to the end-user through Wi-Fi. In enterprise settings, Wi-Fi is essential for handling large amounts of data and simultaneously connecting large numbers of devices with improved reliability, higher data throughput, and lower latencies. However, the 5GHz and 2.4GHz that are being used for Wi-Fi (Wi-Fi 5) at the moment are becoming overwhelmed due to an increase in demand for capacity. It is, therefore, imperative to identify other frequency bands to complement the 5GHz and 2.4GHz.

He stressed, the recently concluded 2023 World Radiocommunications Conference (WRC-23) allocated the 6GHz band for Wi-Fi and IMT applications with different recommendations on how to use the band. This was the outcome of a long study cycle process leading to the decision at the WRC-2023 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

He urged stakeholders feedback for informed decision-making stating that the presentation was presented to stakeholders for our thoughts and recommendations on the use of the Spectrum band, he concluded.