Tag: 5G

Active phone lines in Nigeria hit 210m; 150m Internet subscribers

The Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Prof Umar Danbatta has released some key telecom industry statistics, saying Nigeria has attained 210 million active telephone lines.

TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports Danbatta disclosed this in his keynote at the 2022 Africa Tech Alliance Forum on Wednesday in Lagos where he also disclosed that Internet subscribers in the country have reached 150 million.

The NCC EVC, who was represented by the Commission’s Director of Digital Economy, Dr. Augustine Nwulunne, in the keynote address, said that quality of life is now being measured in terms of digital connectivity that promotes businesses, social and economic well-being of citizens.

He stressed digital connectivity has a major role in advancing the gains of development and sustaining the future, as well as attaining the needed quota in attaining a sustainable future and actualizing the objectives of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The EVC, who spoke on the theme, “Creating a Sustainable Future through Connectivity”, cited studies to buttress the centrality of digital connectivity to quality of life and stated that the NCC is dedicated to activating regulatory initiatives aimed at deepening connectivity for the overall economic development of Nigeria.

“Connectivity and development in Nigeria have not been fortuitous, rather they have been as a result of measured, painstaking and strategic policies implementation in the telecommunications sector by the NCC and relevant stakeholders, and we are committed to driving robust and vibrant telecoms sector to enhance further growth of Nigerian economy in all its spheres,” the EVC said.

According to him, telecommunications sector has become an enabler of economic growth, providing the necessary digital succours that bring greater efficiency in service deliveries in education, healthcare, transportation, commerce, financial services, and other sectors of the economy with greater impact on the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as well as enhancing other sectoral growth correlating to each of the 17 goals on the SDGs.

Danbatta said the NCC, through various policies and initiatives, has provided an enabling environment for a fair and liberalized telecommunications industry, by emplacing appropriate regulatory tools and providing relevant regulatory services for mobile network operators (MNOs), who are the primary providers of telecommunication services in the country.

“The Commission has provided the enabling environment to stimulate the deployment of necessary infrastructure pertinent to the provision of universal and affordable connectivity. The resultant effect of this is that today, we now have over 210 million active telephone lines, representing 110 per cent teledensity; and over 150 million Internet subscribers as well as 45 percent broadband penetration which has enabled over 80 million broadband subscriptions.

“Telecommunications has been credited with lifting millions of Nigerians out of poverty; diversifying the economy and providing over $70bn to Nigeria’s GDP; it has also provided thousands of Nigerians with various employment opportunities. A glance at Nigeria’s historical data on its GDP portrays the upward trajectory of the country’s GDP since the liberalisation of the telecommunications sector. In 2001, Nigeria’s GDP was $74.03 billion, in 2005, it grew to $176.13 billion, and it currently stands at $440.78 billion, and telecom has been a key driver of this growth,” he said.

The EVC told the audience that the Commission is also driving implementation of various policies and frameworks including the Nigerian National Broadband Plan (NNBP) 2020-2025, the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS) 2020-2030; and the ongoing deployment of Fifth Generation (5G) network and other digital interventionist projects aimed at driving universal service availability, accessibility, and availability.

The highlight of the event was the decoration of Danbatta with an award of “5G Core Leadership Award” while the Commission was named as the corporate organization with “Best Digital Economy Project of the Year 2022” for the regulatory efforts of the Commission in driving commercial deployment of Fifth Generation (5G) network in Nigeria.

November 9, 2022
A little alert before another 5G auction in December – By Okoh Aihe

Nigeria is in dire straits. She needs money for daily runs and is bungling on the edge of extreme desperation. Desperation can lead to selling of metal scraps for survival or even selling off national assets, as proposed in the 2023 Budget, what in the case of an individual, is pawning, that is, selling off personal items to meet exigent needs. It is not an enviable status to endure.

Under this condition, there is a desperation to scratch for everything, including the low hanging fruits, which always present an attractive offer. Frequency or Spectrum for telecommunications services occupy prime place in this consideration. It is therefore no surprise that the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the telecommunications regulator, announced last week, that it was putting out for sale in December 2022, some frequencies for 5G services.

Published on the website of the Commission, www.ncc.gov.ng, is a material titled: Information Memorandum on 3.5GHz Spectrum Auction, issued on October 21, 2022. Quite interesting, that material. It details the various steps to be taken to be part of the next auction, gives updates on the country’s telecoms market, and pretty well presents some exciting information why an investor would want to come into the industry to do new business. 3.5GHz is the spectrum for 5G services.

In a little recap which I will call a superfluous tech peregrination, the NCC says: “In its drive to deepen broadband penetration in the country, the Commission in December 2021, conducted an auction of two (2) lots of 100MHz TDD in the 3.5GHz band to support the delivery of ubiquitous broadband services. The Commission is now desirous of auctioning the remaining two (2) lots of 100MHz TDD in the 3.5GHz band to support the delivery of ubiquitous broadband services in line with the Nigerian National Broadband Plan (NNBP) 2020-2025.”

The two available lots are 3400 – 3500 and 3600 – 3700. The one put out for sale last year and duly won by MTN and Mafab ranged from 3500 – 3600 and 3700 – 3800 in the 3.5GHz band. Each winner paid $273.5m for a Lot. The licence tenure is 10 years.

I have observed that while the Reserve Price (RP) for the proposed auction is $273,600,000.00, the RP for the one which was held last year was $197.400,000.00. Quite a significant rise, meaning there must be something happening in the telecommunications market to shoot the price that high. Or the peak of last year has simply become a benchmark for greater things to come!

Don’t get me wrong. Few months ago, three operators in India shelled out a whole of $19bn for Air Wave or Spectrum sales, and they planned to spend much more than that to roll out services. The auguries are different anyway, the huge population of 1.393bn (2021) and the regulatory environment may have made that eye-popping difference.

From all indications, there is so much money to be made from the telecommunications industry, either by way of investment or returns or even license fees which go to the government. However, caution is called for before the goose that lays the golden egg (oh that cliche again!) is crushed to death in a moment of rapacious greed.

I can’t say I feel the excitement in the industry the way it was last year. And my reaction is even more hebetated. Here are my reasons. The investment environment is not as good as it was last year, it is election season and there is a lot of uncertainty hovering all over, and there are the cynics who will simply assume that the process is not for altruistic purposes but for something beyond the love for telecoms.

And there is something about credibility and regulatory propriety. The NCC is very much concerned about this, very concerned about industry and public perception, which is why, each time it would refer to its history of regulatory transparency and its reputable standing in the global gathering of regulators.

During the auction last year, this writer gathered that the participants had squeezed a promise from the regulator that it would put a moratorium on further 5G auctions for at least 24 months. This would at least enable the pioneer 5G operators to recoup some of their investment before others would get the opportunity to join the fray. Only MTN is rolling out service at the moment, Mafab has yet to fully engage, not to talk of making some money back. It is not even 12 months yet, another process has started, leading to some kind of frosty response from some industry stakeholders.

There is also another response that should be of reasonable concern to the regulator. Some internal stakeholders are highly disenchanted with goings-on at the Commission. Some sources within the regulatory agency conversant with the regulatory processes, are very unhappy for what they feel is overbearing political pressure on the regulator to break its rules and kowtow to political avarice.

The regulatory authority should be concerned with lamentations within the system and appropriate their concerns to regenerate a new direction for the agency. A source told this writer that “This is nothing more than political pressure. NCC is in a difficult position and has lost its independence. The Commission has nowhere to run to for protection. No independence for the Board and no independence for the Commission,” multiple sources lamented.

Another source added, “there is no reason for this rush. Nothing says that the process must be completed before this set of politicians will end their term in office. There is no good for this rush,” the source added with signs of exasperation.

On this page we have complained about regulatory capture of some agencies, a situation where the laws and raw energies of an agency are hijacked or appropriated by an individual or a higher authority who assumes the responsibilities of the agency. It brings scorn and ridicule to the agency and accentuates a helplessness that scares investors. Under this administration, the day-to-day running of some visible agencies have been taken over by the ministers who in some instances have awarded licenses without recourse to the agency. It is a most humiliating enterprise, and a troubling sign to local and international investors that the laws of the land can be castrated with political braggadocio.

Mercifully for all of us, the document on the NCC website is still a draft and is open to observations, questions, responses and even objections until November 11, 2022, when all those views will be processed for a final release and publication of the full document on November 18, 2022.

But here is my very humble question: who wants this license so much that is pressuring the regulatory agency to subvert its own rules, propriety and a legacy of regulatory transparency? While the answer is being minted, I suggest that the process be suspended, and also appeal to the politicians to leave the NCC alone, even in tatters. There will be enough time to recover and gather strength again.

This auction, in my own opinion, is not being done because government needs money to run the economy, or for the love of pervasive spread of broadband facilities across the nation, but shamefully because there must be some guys somewhere who want to make a final heist. Irrespective of the overwhelming power of greed, the NCC must be allowed to live its own life, the life of a regulator.

November 2, 2022
NCC to accelerate deployment of emerging technologies in Nigeria

The Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Prof. Umar Danbatta, has stated that NCC will not relent in the promotion of latest and emerging technologies to energize business and the sector in Nigeria for the benefit of the country and its citizens.

Speaking to a cross section of stakeholders at the just-concluded Cyberchain Abuja 2022, Danbatta said the telecom sector has been a key booster of the Nigerian economic activities, transforming the way people live and work as well as increasing efficiency in other sectors of the economy.

Danbatta said the Commission is committed to driving the deployment and adoption of emerging technologies such as Internet of Things (IoT), utilisation of value of Big Data, Blockchain, Robotics and Virtual Reality, FINTECH, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Telemedicine, among others, to stimulate greater contribution of the sector to the economy.

He said it is also gladdening that telecoms has been an enabler of Nigeria’s economic growth and development as it contributes substantially to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

“From $500 million investments in the sector as at 2001, the telecommunications industry has recorded over $70 billion investment till date, while the growth in the sector has been phenomenal, from some 400,000 functional phone lines in 2001 to over 209 million active mobile subscriptions, achieving a teledensity of 110 per cent, as at August 2022.

“The sector has provided over 500,000 formal and informal jobs for Nigerians. From an insignificant contribution to GDP in 2001, telecoms sector, as at the last quarter of 2021, contributed 12.61 per cent to GDP, while the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector as a group, has also contributed 18.44 per cent to GDP as at the second quarter of 2022”, he said.

“For us as a country to reap the full benefits of all these emerging technologies in ways that further spur growth in our national economy, NCC prioritises the need to improve and expand broadband infrastructure and the deployment of new technology such as the Fifth Generation of Mobile Communication (5G). Our efforts in diligently driving this will facilitate the actualization of the set targets in the Federal Government’s digital economy policy,” he said.

Danbatta noted that with the rapid digital transformation happening through telecommunication sector, the country will be in a better position to create alternate economy for diversification, innovation and creativity in e-commerce and digital entrepreneurship, thus empowering a significant number of the populace to become self-reliant and self-employed.

November 1, 2022
5G has no negative health effects – NCC reassures Nigerians

The Nigerian Communication Commission (NCC) has reassured the public that the new Fifth Generation network known as 5G has no adverse health effects.

The Enugu Zonal Controller of the NCC, Mr Ogbonnaya Ugama made the clarification in Enugu on Saturday at a round table with members of the Association of Heads of Federal Establishments (AHFEs).

Ugama explained that there was no convincing evidence that emissions from electromagnetic devices including handsets were harmful to the body.

According to him, international bodies including the World Health Organization (WHO) have established a threshold that there is no solid evidence that 5G causes negative health effects on humans and animals.

The controller however, advised users not to hold these electromagnetic devices like handsets close to their body if they had doubts.

“NCC will do everything possible to guarantee the safety of the citizenry and ensure that every equipment with set standards is approved.

Ugama reiterated the benefits of the 5G network saying that it was designed to increase speed, reduce latency and improve flexibility of wireless services.

“5G has theoretical peak speed of 20 Gigabytes per Second (GBPS) while the peak speed of 4G is only one GBPS.

“5G can transform the Nigeria’s economy, dwelling on its projected impact in sectors of education, finance, security, agriculture, healthcare, entertainment and even governance,” he said.

The controller disclosed that Nigeria was the third country in Africa that had rolled out the 5G network adding that it was operational in six states of Lagos, Imo, Borno, Kano, Rivers, Oyo and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

Ugama said the network would be extended to other states by 2025.

October 30, 2022
BREAKING: Airtel, Glo, 9mobile get another chance to join 5G race in Nigeria

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has set in motion modalities to auction the remaining 3.5 GHz spectrum for the deployment of 5G networks in the country, presenting multinational telecommunications companies operating in Nigeria, Airtel, Glo and 9mobile another opportunity to join the 5G race.

TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports this is as the independent regulatory authority for the telecommunications industry in the country has published the draft information memorandum on the auction of the remaining 3.5 GHz spectrum.

The information memorandum defines the process that the Commission will adopt for the licensing of the remaining 3.5 GHz spectrum. It also provides information on the Nigerian communications market, details of the spectrum on offer, the prequalification process, the auction process, and indicative timetable.

Barring any last-minute amendments by the NCC, the auction of the remaining 3.5 GHz spectrum for the deployment of 5G in the country will hold on 19 December 2022 at a yet-to-be-determined venue with a mock auction expected on 16 December 2022.

The auction closure will occur when the public announcement is made by the auction overseer/manager, revealing the provisional winners to be awarded the licences under the process, at which point each successful bidder will automatically be deemed to have been awarded a provisional licence.

However, to stand a chance, Airtel, Glo, 9mobile and any other interested telecom firms are expected to pay a mandatory Intention-To-Bid Deposit (IBD)of USD27,360,000.00 tentatively by 5 December 2022, which is also the tentative deadline for the submission of applications for the auction.

According to the draft information memorandum, the NCC is offering the remaining lots of the 100MHz in the 3.5GHz spectrum band to support 5G deployment in Nigeria in order to ensure reliable communications services and innovative digital technologies in the country.

The Commission is offering the remaining two lots in the band ranging from 3400-3500 MHz and 3600-3700 MHz, totalling 200 MHz for auction. This will be awarded to winning bidders in 100MHz lot. The auction will be an Ascending Clock Auction.

Each lot of 100 MHz TDD represents 1 eligibility point. This means that only two telecom firms stand a chance to succeed in the final outcome of the auction.

While 3400-3500 MHz represents Lot A, 3600-3700 MHz represents Lot C and are available for auction. Lot B (3500-3600 MHz) had been won by MTN and Lot D (3700-3800 MHz) had been won by Mafab in 2021 with the Guard Band of 100 MHz in the range of 3800-3900 MHz not available for auction.

Recall that NCC had in December 2021 conducted an auction of the first two lots of 100 MHz TDD in the 3.5 GHz band to deepen broadband penetration and support the delivery of ubiquitous broadband services in the country. Mafab and MTN scaled through, defeating Airtel to emerge successful during the 2021 auction.

TNG reports that the reserve price, the minimum price for one lot of the remaining 100 MHz TDD, for a ten (10) year licence tenure, has been fixed by NCC at USD273,600,000.00 or its equivalent in Naira at the prevailing Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) rates at the time of the auction.

However, the fee for the 5G spectrum licence will be determined at the auction. The opening bid will be an increment higher than the reserve price in the opening round of the auction. A successful bidder at the auction will be expected to pay a sum equal to the amount of the winning bid minus the IBD, as well as an operational licence fee, where applicable.

The balance (winning bid amount less the IBD) of the auction fee shall be paid to the Commission on or before 20 January 2023.

Inviting comments from the public and interested stakeholders, the Commission disclosed that it will hold a public consultation in respect of the draft information memorandum on 15 November 2022 in line with it’s participatory rule-making process for the communications sector.

TNG gathers that if a bidder is disqualified from the process, the Commission reserves the right to impose a penalty. The maximum penalty may result in forfeiture of the full IBD paid and the bidder may be barred from future auctions.

October 23, 2022
Full commercial launch of 5G in Nigeria on course – NCC

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has disclosed that the full commercial launch of the Fifth Generation (5G) network in Nigeria is on course.

TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports that the Commission made the disclosure at the NCC Day held at the 17th Abuja International Trade Fair, Convention Centre on Tuesday.

The NCC Day was held at the trade fair, which commenced on Friday with the theme: “Creating an Export-Ready Market Through SME Digitalisation“, to sensitise consumers on telecom services.

The Executive Vice-Chairman of NCC, Prof. Umar Danbatta, who made the disclosure, said that 5G network would bring substantial network improvements, higher connection speed, mobility, and capacity, as well as low-latency capabilities to communications services in Nigeria.

Danbatta, represented by Mr Efosa Idehen, Director, Consumer Affairs Bureau, NCC, said that one of the licensees had launched the commercial 5G network on Sept. 18 in Lagos.

“The deployment will start from the state capitals and gradually extend to other areas across the state. It is important to state that the 5G network will bring substantial network improvements, including higher connection speed, mobility, and capacity, as well as low-latency capabilities to communications services in Nigeria. I am happy to inform you that one of the licensees has kicked off commercial launch in Lagos. Already, spectrum licences for the companies that will rollout service had been issued,” he said.

Danbatta said that NCC would provide a level-playing ground for operators to thrive, promote investment and delivery of innovative services to individual consumers, SMEs and big business owners by ensuring enhanced consumer quality of experience.

Earlier, the Director of Consumer Affairs Bureau, NCC, Efosa Idehen, said that the commission carries out its functions to ensure service availability, accessibility, affordability and sustainability for all categories of consumers.

Edehen, represented by Mr Clement Omeife, Head, Consumer Protection and Advocacy, NCC, said that the commission was working to resolve issues of incessant complaints on data depletion, among others.

“Currently, the commission is working on resolving the issue of incessant complaints on Data Depletion, as well as Fair Usage Policy on Unlimited Data Plan.

“Others are compensation policies of Service Providers and the hidden Terms and Conditions that apply to services in the industry,” Omeife said.

Mrs Doris Usman, a consumer, commended the NCC for bringing such gesture to the consumers and explaining to their understanding.

“I thank this commission for coming all the way to give us this awareness on telecom services and how we can use the opportunity to leverage on it,” she said.

October 5, 2022
MTN leads the way to a 5G world – By Okoh Aihe

The 5G technology is a big pie, a really big pie. Every country in the world wants to have a hand in it, especially those who have gone beyond the scramble for the daily grind of life. Some are front runners, doing their stuff on the fast lane. A whole lot are pretenders trying to break into the league of the big boys. But it is a league that brooks no pretences, a league that must be joined with demonstrable credentials, where execution of the rollout plan is the only certificate that guarantees valid entrance, at least, for those in the last mile end of the business.

But the big boys, from the more developed countries of the world, are not always very free minded in admitting members into the league. So, they set all kinds of hurdles, not frontally any way but in a very subtle way, surrounding where and how an operator has to acquire equipment, to ensure they are not laced with espionage facilities. You know the world must be protected from itself but they hide their real intentions that the real fight is over who controls the technology, which really will become the strong global policeman of the future. Any country who controls 5G technology will in no time control the world.

The 5G technology is a big pie which comes at a huge cost but the returns are even more frightening. 2020 GSMA Intelligence report – The Mobile Economy, projects that by 2034, the technology will contribute $2.2 trillion to the global economy. Something really huge and still booting, eh? Little surprise then that three companies in India are shelling out $19bn for Air wave or spectrum sales with Ambani’s Reliance Jio doling out $11bn of that amount, just to broach the 5G ecosystem. The other two are Bharti Airtel and Vodafone IDEA. Several billions will also be ploughed into the rollout phase which should happen as early as September this year. 5G is a game for the big boys who are ready to roll the dice without thinking of the consequences of the cost.

Countries are railing against countries just to control 5G technology in terms of equipment vending and service rollout, while corporates are outbidding each other in order to have some good control of some attractive economies. But the technology will come at a cost that may only serve the interest of some data nerds.

It is therefore heart warming that MTN Nigeria, has led the country to join this exclusive list of the big boys of the telecommunications industry when, last week, it rolled out 5G pilot services in three locations of the country, namely: Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt.

Quite effusive about the development, the service provider said, “Today (August 24, 2022), MTN Nigeria Communications Plc (MTN Nigeria, or the Company) kicked off an open 5G pilot in the lead-up to its highly anticipated commercial launch. The Company, which intends to launch 5G services in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Ibadan, Kano, Owerri, and Maiduguri, is testing the next-generation network infrastructure. Customers with certain enabled devices will be allowed to connect with and try out the new service where coverage is available.”

The caveat however is that the service can only be received by some devices that are 5G enabled, and this was duly communicated. “To access the 5G network and enjoy its benefits, customers will need compatible devices, such as routers and mobile phones, which can be pre-ordered from designated MTN walk-in stores and online via the MTN Nigeria website and e-marketplace. The pre-ordered devices can be picked up or will be delivered to customers post the launch event scheduled to take place in the coming weeks,” MTN said in the statement.

The game is on and before mid September the real deal will be unveiled to a nation that should have been fighting for a place at the top of the ladder but for the bungling attitude of the political class that has become an albatross. They make us look small in the eyes of the world.

Nobody needs to be reminded that what is happening is truly epochal and some kind of piercing light in the thick of darkness where hopelessness has form and shape, you know, the way they describe matter in elementary science. The feat fires a can-do spirit which is one of the raw characteristics of the average Nigerian irrespective of the environment.

Adia Sowho, Chief Marketing Officer, MTN, captured unfolding developments in the following words, cresting on 5G as the ultimate clincher. “Every major technological evolution redefines what is possible – changing the way we live and the way we connect. MTN Nigeria has been at the forefront of every leap in telecommunications: from GSM to 2G, 3G, and 4G. 5G has the potential to change everything. It will allow us to connect, create, collaborate, and compete in ways we’ve not even begun to imagine,” she enthused.

MTN Nigeria emerged one of the two winners of the 3.5GHz spectrum auction conducted by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) on December 13, last year. The other winner is Mafab Communications. 3.5GHz is the spectrum band for 5G technology. The auction picked at $273.6m per license.

The licensees were given an August deadline to rollout services but all other rollout obligations were clearly stated in the Information Memorandum released before the auction. So, it will be factual to state here that every bidder, including Airtel, which listed an exit bid of $270m, didn’t go into the playing field with eyes blindfolded or arms tied behind. It was an open book which remains a regulatory strength of the Commission.

From industry sources, it seems that MTN is ready to exceed expectations as per the rollout obligations which state as follows: Year 1 to 2 – Starting from the effective date of the licence. Rollout service in at least one State in each geo-political zone: SW, SS, SE, NC (Including FCT), NW and NE. From Year 3 to 5, additional 6 States other than those in Year 1 to 2, across the six geo-political zones, while from Year 6 to 10, Operators are encouraged to roll out across all other States.

While one can call the rollout demands quite humble, it is clear to see that MTN is primed to meet all that and then position to cream off the high end of the business with an initial entry level of about 220 5G sites. As it was in the past, so it will always be. When the dust settles MTN will be far in front while others shout helplessly about monopoly practices.

This writer can confirm that Mafab has been given a grace period within which to rollout services. Industry sources however also confirm that the licensee is in frantic search for investors to enable it to fulfil its license obligations. My sympathies are for Mafab. This administration has completely ruined the nation’s economy to the extentent that nobody will want to put serious money in an environment that looks seemingly hostile and failing fast.

Funding a 5G operation is no child’s play. Operators in India are planning to invest between $15bn and $25bn each to cover the country’s market. Even for a nation, such money will be a challenge when you look at the antecedents of this government.

Now our initial fears on this column are being justified, and this should be a regulatory lesson. The allegory of a David and Goliath doesn’t belong here. Such a humongous license shouldn’t be given to a rookie struggling for limelight. India has demonstrated this by awarding 5G licenses mainly to existing and established operators who are able to pay the license fees and rollout services immediately.

Whatever it is, we stand with Mafab in its struggles. The organisation should be given time to rollout and not be troubled by any regulatory stipulations. After all, the 5G technology will be one of the few landmarks that this administration can point to as an achievement, and should not ruin it with its inability to read the future from a troubled present.

For the time being, this government should be sincere enough to express gratitude to MTN for providing some tech grains it can point to in the future as a legacy.

August 31, 2022
5G network: Where and how to get access to service in Nigeria
Fifth-Generation (5G) mobile network went live at 190 locations across Nigeria on Wednesday, with MTN becoming the first telecommunications provider in the country to launch the much anticipated mobile network in the country.

Already, 20,000 customers of MTN with enabled devices can now try out the 5G network where coverage is available. If you see a 5G signal icon on the top right of your phone, it means you are part of the 5G pilot by MTN.

“2G brought us SMS and picture messaging. 3G was about mobile internet access. 4G made streaming and sharing a part of everyday life. 5G delivers the future and it’s here – higher internet speeds, downloads without delay, near-instant connection when streaming, using apps, loading websites, playing games, or connecting to smart home devices” – Modupe Kadri, CFO, MTN Nigeria.

Where to get access to 5G service in Nigeria

The 5G pilot by MTN is currently live at 190 locations in Nigeria. The 5G network is live in select locations in Anambra, Borno, Delta, Edo, Imo, Kano, Rivers, Oyo, and Lagos States, including the FCT.

Some users have reported internet speeds of up to 1.4g per second on the 5G network, according to BusinessDay sources.

Places to get 5G coverage in Anambra State
- Anambra – Nnamdi Azikwe University
- Anambra – Ifite Awka
- Anambra – Anambra State Secretariat
- Anambra – Okpuno Awka
- Anambra – Osonwa, Awka
- Anambra – Obunagu
Places to get 5G coverage in Borno State
- Borno – New Gra Maiduguri
- Borno – Old Gra Maiduguri
- Borno – Unimaid Jere
Places to get 5G coverage in Delta State
- Delta – Warri Airport Okpe
- Delta – Okuokoko
Places to get 5G coverage in Edo State
- Edo – Ogbe, Oredo
- Edo – Olukwu
- Edo – Ugbowo
- Edo – University of Benin
- Edo – Ekosodin
- Edo – Umagbae North
Places to get 5G coverage in FCT, Abuja
- FCT- Abuja Airport Rd
- FCT – Apo
- FCT- Asokoro Extension
- FCT- Asokoro Municipal Area Council
- FCT – Cbd Phase 1 Abuja
- FCT – Dawaki Abuja
- FCT – Durumi
- FCT – Fha Abuja
- FCT – Galadima Gwaripa
- FCT – Garki 2
- FCT – Garki Area 1
- FCT – Garki Area 11
- FCT – Garki Area 3
- FCT – Garki Area 8
- FCT – Gidan Boyi
- FCT – Gudu Municipal Area Council
- FCT – Gwarinpa Hosuing Estate
- FCT – Idu Industrial District
- FCT – Jabi
- FCT – Kado
- FCT – Katambe
- FCT – Kaura Municipal Area Council
- FCT – Kubwa
- FCT – Life Camp Abuja
- FCT – Lokogoma
- FCT – Lugbe Zone 1
- FCT – Mabushi
- FCT – Maitama
- FCT – Maitama Extension
- FCT – Nnamdi Azikwe International Airport
- FCT – Three Arms Zone
- FCT – Utako
- FCT – Works And Housing Abuja
- FCT – Wuse 1 Zone 1
- FCT – Wuse 1 Zone 2
- FCT – Wuse 1 Zone 3
- FCT – Wuse 1 Zone 4
- FCT – Wuse 1 Zone 5.
- FCT – Wuse 1 Zone 6
- FCT – Wuse 2A
- FCT – Wuse 2B
- FCT – Wuye
Places to get 5G coverage in Imo State
- Imo – Emmanuel College Owerri
- Imo – Nekede Garden Estate
- Imo – Owerri Town
- Imo – Wetheral Rd Owerri
Places to get 5G coverage in Kano State
- Kano – Badawa
- Kano – Bayero University
- Kano – Caterpillar Kano
- Kano – Emirs Palace Kano
- Kano – Fagge Secretariat
- Kano – Gwale
- Kano – Rijiyar Zaki
Places to get 5G coverage in Lagos State
- Lagos – 1004
- Lagos – Abijoh Village
- Lagos – Abraham Adesanya
- Lagos – Abule-Oja
- Lagos – Adeniji Adele
- Lagos – Adeola Odeku
- Lagos – Adetokunbo Ademola
- Lagos – Aguda
- Lagos – Agungi
- Lagos – Ajah
- Lagos – Ajao Estate
- Lagos – Ajose Adeogun
- Lagos – Akin Adesola
- Lagos – Alagomeji
- Lagos – Alausa
- Lagos – Alfred Rewane
- Lagos – Anifowoshe
- Lagos – Awolowo Rd
- Lagos – Badore
- Lagos – Balogun
- Lagos – Banana Island
- Lagos – Barracks Surulere Lagos-Bode Thomas
- Lagos – Bourdillon
- Lagos – Carlton Gate Estate
- Lagos – Chevron Lagos
- Lagos – Chevy Estate
- Lagos – Computer Village Lagos
- Lagos – Dolphin Estate
- Lagos – Ebute-Metta
- Lagos – Eric Moore
- Lagos – Femi Okunnu Estate
- Lagos – Glover Rd Ikoyi
- Lagos – Graceland Estate
- Lagos – Idi-Oro Lagos
- Lagos – Igbosere
- Lagos – Ikate Elegushi
- Lagos – Ikeja Gra Lagos – Ikota Villa
- Lagos – Ikoyi Lagos
- Lagos – Ilupeju Ikeja
- Lagos – Ilupeju Mushin
- Lagos – Itire Mushin
- Lagos – Jakande Estate Lekki
- Lagos – Langbasa
- Lagos – Lekki County Homes
- Lagos – Lekki Phase 1
- Lagos – Lekki Scheme 2
- Lagos – Light House Estate
- Lagos – Magboro
- Lagos – Marina
- Lagos – Maroko
- Lagos – MMA 1
- Lagos – MMA 2
- Lagos – Mushin
- Lagos – Nicon Estate
- Lagos – Northern Foreshore Estate
- Lagos – Obalende
- Lagos – Obalende Eti-Osa
- Lagos – Ogombo
- Lagos – Oke Ira Nia
- Lagos – Onikan
- Lagos – Onike
- Lagos – Oniru Estate
- Lagos – Onitiri
- Lagos – Opebi
- Lagos – Osapa London
- Lagos – Osborne
- Lagos – Palm Spring Estate
- Lagos – Palmgrove
- Lagos – Palms Shopping Mall
- Lagos – Parkview Estate
- Lagos – Pinnock Beach Estate
- Lagos – Sabo-Yaba
- Lagos – Saka Tinubu
- Lagos – Sangotedo
- Lagos – University Of Lagos
- Lagos – Victoria Garden City
- Lagos – Victory Estate
- Lagos – Yaba Lagos
- Lagos – Yabatech
Places to get 5G coverage in Rivers State
- Rivers – Ada George Road Axis
- Rivers – Agip Ph
- Rivers – Artillery Port-Harcourt
- Rivers – Choba Town
- Rivers – D Line
- Rivers – Diobu Mile 1
- Rivers – Diobu Mile 3
- Rivers – Elekahia
- Rivers – Elelenwo
- Rivers – Gra Phase 2
- Rivers – Mgbuoba Rivers Mgbuosimini
- Rivers – NTA PH Mguoba
- Rivers – Ohiamini
- Rivers – Old Aba Road Ph
- Rivers – Old Gra Ph
- Rivers – Old Township Ph
- Rivers – Oroworoko
- Rivers – Port Harcourt Rural
- Rivers – Rumudara
- Rivers – Rumueme
- Rivers – Rumuepirikom
- Rivers – Rumuogba
- Rivers – Rumuola
- Rivers – Rumuomasi
- Rivers – Shell Industrial Area
- Rivers – Shell Residential Area
- Rivers – Trans Amadi
- Rivers – University Of Port-Harcourt
- Rivers – Woji Ph
Places to get 5G coverage in Oyo State
- Oyo – Agodi
- Oyo – Challenge Oyo
- Oyo – Dugbe
- Oyo – lyaganku Ibadan North-West
- Oyo – New Bodija
- Oyo – Nist Samonda
- Oyo – Old Bodija
- Oyo – Oluyole
- Oyo – Samonda
- Oyo – The Polytechnic Ibadan North Campus
- Oyo – The Polytechnic Ibadan South Campus
- Oyo – Trans Amusement Park
- Oyo – University Of Ibadan
How to get access to 5G service in Nigeria

In order to use the 5G network, you must have a mobile phone or a device that supports 5G, and you must be in an area where the 5G network is serviced. In this case, the phone or device will automatically connect to 5G.

Presently, there are limited 5G devices. Only 20,000 customers of MTN with enabled devices can try out the 5G network where coverage is available as it is. Already, MTN has started selling a 5G broadband router for its customers to be able to access the network.

There are no dedicated bundle plans for MTN 5G customers, as customers are to use Broadband Home or Office data propositions. However, 5G customers are encouraged to activate 100GB and above for a better experience.

If you have a mobile phone that supports 5G but does not connect to the 5G network, you can check the network mode to make sure that your phone is 5G enabled. Follow the steps below:

Android
- Step 1. Open Settings and select Connections
- Step 2. Select Mobile Network
- Step 3. Tap Network mode and then select the option with 5G connectivity
iPhone

The default settings for 5G on iPhone are optimized for battery life and data usage based on your data plan. You can customize these options for when to use 5G and how much data to use in some apps.

Find these options by going to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options. If you’re using Dual SIM, go to Settings > Cellular and choose the number whose options you want to change.

Voice & Data
Choose how your iPhone uses the 5G network, which can affect battery life.
- 5G Auto: Enables Smart Data mode. When 5G speeds don’t provide a noticeably better experience, your iPhone automatically switches to LTE, saving battery life.
- 5G On: Always uses 5G network when it’s available. This might reduce battery life.
- LTE: Uses only LTE network, even when 5G is available.
Data Mode
- Allow More Data on 5G: Enables higher data-usage features for apps and system tasks. These include higher-quality FaceTime, high-definition content on Apple TV, Apple Music songs and videos, iOS updates over cellular, and automatic iCloud backups.
  
  With this setting, your iPhone can automatically use 5G instead of Wi-Fi when Wi-Fi connectivity is slow or insecure on a network you visit occasionally. To turn this feature off and on for a certain network, go to Settings > Wi-Fi. Tap the info button next to the Wi-Fi network and tap Use Wi-Fi for Internet.
  
  This setting also allows third-party apps to use more cellular data for enhanced experiences.
  
  This is the default setting with some unlimited-data plans, depending on your carrier.
  
  This setting uses more cellular data.
- Standard: Allows automatic updates and background tasks on cellular, and uses standard quality settings for video and FaceTime. This is generally the default mode.
- Low Data Mode: Helps reduce Wi-Fi and cellular-data usage by pausing automatic updates and background tasks.
Whenever 5G network is unavailable beyond 5G coverage, the phone automatically reverts to 4G (LTE) or 3G speed. Check if the phone shows the 5G indicator in the status bar. If not, your phone is using 4G (LTE) or 3G.

If you are currently experiencing the speed of 5G connectivity, leave a comment below:
August 25, 2022
5G mobile network goes live in Nigeria across 190 locations

Fifth-Generation (5G) mobile network has gone live at 190 locations across Nigeria, with MTN becoming the first telecommunications provider in the country to launch the much anticipated mobile network in the country.

TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports that the 190 locations that have gone live with 5G service are mainly in Lagos State, the commercial hub of Nigeria, and Abuja, the federal capital territory (FCT).

Recall that the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) had set the target of August for the roll out of 5G mobile network in the country after MTN and Mafab Communications won the bid for the deployment.

While Mafab had been granted a grace period of 5 months to deploy, MTN has said it’s 5G service would be live at over 500 sites across the country by October.

Already, MTN has started selling a 5G broadband router for its customers to be able to access the network as there are currently limited devices that can connect with the 5G network.

“Yes today we turned on the 5G spectrum and kicked off our 5G pilot. 20,000 customers with enabled devices can now try out our next-generation network where coverage is available. 2G brought us SMS and picture messaging. 3G was about mobile internet access. 4G made streaming and sharing a part of everyday life.

“5G delivers the future and it’s here – higher internet speeds, downloads without delay, near-instant connection when streaming, using apps, loading websites, playing games, or connecting to smart home devices,” Modupe Kadri, CFO, MTN Nigeria stated on LinkedIn.

TNG reports the MTN 5G network is live in select locations in Anambra, Borno, Delta, Edo, Imo, Kano, Rivers, Oyo, and Lagos States, including the FCT.

Some users have reported internet speeds of up to 1.4g per second on the 5G network, according to BusinessDay sources.

With the launch by MTN, Nigeria has joined South Africa and Kenya in the race to 5G on the African continent.

South Africa began its 5G network journey in March through MTN and Vodacom while Kenya started the deployment of 5G through Safaricom in April.

ALSO READ || 5G network: Where and how to get access to service in Nigeria

According to the Global mobile Suppliers Association (GSA), around 70 countries had 5G networks as of June 2022, up from just 38 in mid-2020. It stated that approximately 15 more have had 5G mobile technology deployed in part.

TNG reports that a vital advantage of 5G is the number of use cases it will enable and the emerging technologies it will facilitate.

This rides on its ability to provide wireless broadband services at Gigabit speeds and data connections well above 10 Gigabits per second, latency below five milliseconds and the capability to exploit any available wireless resource, from Wi-Fi to 4G and to handle millions of connected devices simultaneously

5G technology will support the development of new applications which will connect devices and allow innovative applications and business models due to its software virtualization abilities.

The NCC in the National Policy document on 5G Networks for Nigeria’s Digital Economy had identified a number of use cases of 5G technology.

These include enhancements in application areas such as Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Robotics, Drones, Advanced Communication Systems, Cloud, 3D Printing, Mixed Reality, Simulation/Imaging and Gamification.

“These application areas will impact and create new improvements in areas such as Manufacturing, Transportation, Public Services, Health and Social Works, Agriculture, Energy, Logistics, Media and Entertainment, Mining and Quarrying, Machinery and Equipment, Automotive, Education, Information and Communication, Urban Infrastructure, Consumer experience, Sports, Semiconductor Technologies, etc,” the document reads in part.

To drive the revolution, NCC is under the mandate to encourage stakeholders to provide innovative solutions and partner with National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and other relevant agencies to facilitate the adoption of these technologies.

TNG reports the Commission is also under the mandate to collaborate with relevant agencies of government to support MSMEs and provide suitable enabling environments that foster innovation and creativity.

The Commission will also continue to collaborate with the academia and research institutions to fund research proposals that encourage the development of innovative solutions based on 5G.

August 24, 2022
NCC to support indigenous innovative solutions based on 5G

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) will support the development of indigenous innovative solutions based on the use cases of 5G technology by funding hackathons, research fairs and startup hubs.

TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports this is contained in the National Policy document on Fifth Generation (5G) Networks for Nigeria’s Digital Economy, which has identified a number of use cases of 5G technology.

Already, the regulatory authority for the telecommunications industry in Nigeria has set in motion the process to amend regulatory instruments in anticipation of 5G revolution in Nigeria, which the Commission has envisaged will result in the proliferation of devices in the country.

A vital advantage of 5G is the number of use cases it will enable and the emerging technologies it will facilitate.

This rides on its ability to provide wireless broadband services at Gigabit speeds and data connections well above 10 Gigabits per second, latency below five milliseconds and the capability to exploit any available wireless resource, from Wi-Fi to 4G and to handle millions of connected devices simultaneously

5G technology will support the development of new applications which will connect devices and allow innovative applications and business models due to its software virtualization abilities.

The NCC in the National Policy document identified use cases of 5G technology to include enhancements in application areas such as Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Robotics, Drones, Advanced Communication Systems, Cloud, 3D Printing, Mixed Reality, Simulation/Imaging and Gamification.

“These application areas will impact and create new improvements in areas such as Manufacturing, Transportation, Public Services, Health and Social Works, Agriculture, Energy, Logistics, Media and Entertainment, Mining and Quarrying, Machinery and Equipment, Automotive, Education, Information and Communication, Urban Infrastructure, Consumer experience, Sports, Semiconductor Technologies, etc,” the document reads in part.

To drive the revolution, NCC is under the mandate to encourage stakeholders to provide innovative solutions and partner with National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and other relevant agencies to facilitate the adoption of these technologies.

TNG reports the Commission is also under the mandate to collaborate with relevant agencies of government to support MSMEs and provide suitable enabling environments that foster innovation and creativity.

The Commission will also continue to collaborate with the academia and research institutions to fund research proposals that encourage the development of innovative solutions based on 5G.

August 10, 2022