NCC Releases Draft Guidelines for Use of Lower 6 GHz Band in Nigeria

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC ) has issued draft guidelines for the use of the lower 6 GHz spectrum (5925 – 6425 MHz) in Nigeria. This move is aimed at facilitating investment, promoting innovation, and ensuring efficient spectrum use to support high-speed, high-bandwidth, and low-latency applications across the country.

The lower 6 GHz band is now available for Wireless Access Systems (WAS) and Radio Local Area Networks (RLAN) applications, including Wi-Fi 6, on a license-exempt and shared basis. However, users must apply for an Operational Licence-exemption certificate from the NCC before deployment.

Key aspects of the guidelines 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.

The NCC emphasized that these regulations are designed to ensure the lower 6 GHz band is used efficiently, safely, and in a manner that supports the growing demand for advanced connectivity across Nigeria.

Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of NCC, highlighted that the regulatory framework aligns with global standards such as IEEE 802.11ax and ETSI EN 303687, while supporting innovation and expansion of wireless broadband services.

The NCC also noted that it will periodically review the guidelines to maintain relevance and effectiveness as new technologies emerge.