The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced that three telecoms companies have qualified as approved bidders of the forthcoming 3.5 gigahertz (Ghz) spectrum auction.
TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports the 3.5Ghz spectrum band is the band to be used for the deployment of Fifth generation (5G) networks in Nigeria.
According to a statement by Dr. Ikechukwu Adinde, NCC’s Director, Public Affairs, the qualified bidders are MTN Nigeria Plc., Mafab Communications Limited and Airtel Networks Limited.
Adinde stated that the bidders have met the criteria for participation in the licensing process of 3.5Ghz spectrum, including payment of the stipulated Intention to Bid Deposit (IBD) as outlined in the Information Memorandum (IM).
“Consequently, the stage is now set for the three companies to participate in the Main Auction as well as in the mandatory Mock Auction process, which will come as a precursor to the Main Auction,” Adinde stated.
TNG reports the NCC has also reaffirmed the dates for the conduct of both the mock auction and the main auction.
The mock auction is scheduled to hold on Friday, December 10, 2021 at Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja by 11:00 a.m., while the main auction will hold on Monday, December 13, 2021 at the same venue and same time.