The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has published draft guidelines for the use of the lower 6 GHz spectrum (5925–6425 MHz), aiming to spur investment, foster innovation, and ensure efficient use of spectrum for high-speed, high-bandwidth, and low-latency applications nationwide.
According to the NCC, the growing demand for spectrum resources to support high bandwidth, high-speed data, and low latency applications has resulted in an increased availability of equipment for use on the 6 GHz band. This has necessitated the development of a regulatory framework to guide the usage of the 6 GHz band, particularly the range (5925 – 6425) MHz band, commonly referred to as the lower 6 GHz band, to facilitate the deployment of wireless access systems (WAS) together with other communications services in the band.
The band is now available for WAS and radio local area networks (RLAN) applications, including Wi-Fi 6, on a license-exempt and shared basis. Users must obtain an Operational Licence-exemption certificate from the NCC before deployment.
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Key provisions include:
- Type Approval: All equipment must be approved by the NCC prior to importation or deployment. Any alteration or non-compliance may result in sanctions.
- Operational Conditions: The band may be used for various services, including indoor low-power (ILP) devices restricted to indoor use and very low-power (VLP) devices for both indoor and outdoor deployment, except for drones or outdoor fixed services without a separate spectrum license.
- Technical Conditions: Indoor devices may transmit up to 23 dBm (200mW) with a mean in-band emission of 10 dBm/MHz. VLP devices may transmit up to 14 dBm (25mW) with a mean in-band emission of 1 dBm/MHz. Adequate spectrum-sharing mechanisms are required to prevent harmful interference.
- Spectrum Sharing: Licensed fixed service users will be protected from interference, while licensed-exempt users are required to optimize spectrum use without causing disruption.
- Regulatory Oversight: The NCC retains the right to inspect systems, enforce compliance, and resolve disputes related to spectrum usage.
According to NCC CEO, Dr. Aminu Maida, the framework aligns with global standards such as IEEE 802.11ax and ETSI EN 303687, supporting the expansion of wireless broadband services while safeguarding licensed spectrum users. The NCC will periodically review the guidelines to adapt to emerging technologies.
