NCC Opens Public Inquiry on Spectrum Roadmap and High-Speed Wireless Guidelines
By Eyo Nsima
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has launched a public inquiry into its Draft Spectrum Roadmap for the Communications Sector (2025–2030) and associated regulatory frameworks designed to shape Nigeria’s digital and wireless future. The announcement comes as the Commission seeks broad input from telecom operators, technology firms, consumer groups and the public to refine its strategy for spectrum management over the next five years.
Under the provisions of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003, the NCC published the draft roadmap alongside guidelines for the use of the 60 GHz licence-exempt band for multi-gigabit wireless systems and the lower portion of the 6 GHz band for Wi-Fi 6 services. Both instruments are intended to support ultra-high-speed wireless connectivity and align Nigeria’s spectrum policy with global best practices, regulators say.
The spectrum roadmap sets out strategic plans for efficient allocation, planning and utilisation of radio frequencies from 2025 through 2030, with priorities including broadband expansion, support for emerging technologies such as 5G and IoT, and the optimisation of scarce spectrum resources. The NCC says the framework aims to encourage innovation, attract investment and ensure quality service for consumers nationwide.
High-capacity frequency bands like 60 GHz, capable of delivering multi-gigabit speeds, and the lower 6 GHz band, ideal for next-generation wireless and Wi-Fi 6 deployments, are central to the guidelines released. The Commission expects that formalising regulatory conditions for these bands will help boost connectivity — particularly in dense urban areas, enterprise networks and broadband “last-mile” services.
In conjunction with the inquiry, the NCC has scheduled a virtual public consultation forum where stakeholders can discuss, provide feedback and ask questions about the draft regulatory instruments. The inquiry will take place from 19 – 20 January 2026, offering industry players and interested stakeholders a platform to help shape the final versions of the documents.
Comments and recommendations on the draft roadmap and guidelines must be submitted by email to designated NCC addresses, with the Commission emphasising that stakeholder input will be critical in refining the frameworks to ensure they foster innovation, competition and sustainable growth for Nigeria’s communications sector.
The NCC’s move reflects its continued focus on planning forward-looking spectrum policies that support Nigeria’s ambitions for digital expansion, high-speed connectivity and overall economic development.
