NCC resumes 2.6 GHz frequency spectrum auction

THE Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), on behalf of the Federal Government of Nigeria, has announced the resumption of the 2.6GHz spectrum auction.

According to a circular signed yesterday by the Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of NCC, Prof. Umar Danbatta, all interested parties should be informed that the auction of frequency spectrum licences in the 2.6 GHz band has resumed.

The circular reads: “The Nigerian Communications Commission, on behalf of the Federal Government of Nigeria hereby informs parties interested in participating in the Auction of Frequency Spectrum Licences in the 2.6GHz band that the process of the auction has resumed.”

Danbatta said further details will be published in due course in print and electronic media, as well as the commission’s website. He advised interested participants to watch out.

The NCC EVC had during an interaction with the media in Lagos, recently informed that the commission had not jettisoned the auction of the 2.6GHz spectrum, which was postponed by the commission twice last year under the leadership of the former EVC, Dr. Eugene Juwah.

Danbatta said the auction and eventual licensing would aid the provision of improved telecommunications services, especially as the country moves into the era of increased data services.

Danbatta also disclosed that the commission planned to complete the licensing of the five remaining regional infrastructure company (InfraCo).

MainOne Cable and IHS secured the first two concessions – for Lagos State and the North Central Zone, respectively in January 2015.