Nigerian Government tasks NCC on speedy, effective implementation of 5G technology

*Prof. Isa Ali Pantami, Minister for Communications and Digital Economy, urges the Nigerian Communications Commission to begin immediate activation of 5G Networks to push forward the march to increased digital transformation of the Nigerian economy

Gbenga Kayode | ConsumerConnect

Subsequent to the recent approval of the National Policy on Fifth Generation (5G) technology deployment in Nigeria by the Federal Executive Council (FEC), Prof. Isa Ali Pantami, Honourable Minister for Communications and Digital Economy, has directed the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to prepare for immediate and effective implementation of the policy in the country.

Prof. Pantami issued the directive when the Management of the telecoms regulatory Commission, paid him a courtesy visit in his office Thursday, September 9, 2021, at the Communications and Digital Economy Complex, Mbora, Abuja, FCT.

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Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta, Executive Vice-Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (EVC/CEO) of NCC, led the delegation on the courtesy visit to the Minister.

 

Dr. Ikechukwu Adinde, Director of Public Affairs, in a statement issued Friday, September 10, in Abuja, said Pantami noted with the approval of the 5G National Policy, which was a product of extensive and wide consultation, “the next big task ahead of the Commission is to begin immediate implementation to push forward the country’s march to increased digital transformation of the economy.”

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Prof. Pantami, who also applauded the Commission for the launch of its Strategic Vision (Implementation) Plan (SVP) 2021-2025, compendium of Danbatta’s speeches and presentations, and ‘NCC Global Connect’ podcast, said that the SVP would be a veritable vehicle to give the needed impetus to the implementation of the 5G plan in Nigeria.

He stated: “The NCC needs to ensure total implementation of the SVP. We should try to have timelines and ensure to deliver on them.

According to the Minister for Communications and Digital Economy, developing the Vision Plan is commendable, but ensuring diligent implementation is even more important.

“So, the EVC should commit to total implementation of the SVP.”

In respect of the NCC Global Connect podcast he launched recently, the Minister indicated that as a digital communication channel, “I see it as important because we need more sensitisation.

“We need to reach out to citizens and create awareness about our regulatory activities, change certain perceptions, and counter some conspiracy theories against technologies and many more.

READ ALSO: NCC Unveils 5-Year Strategic Plan, Umar Danbatta’s Book, Global Connect Podcast

“The podcast is one of the best ways we would be able to achieve this.”

Earlier in his remarks during the visit to the Minister, the statement said Danbatta stated that the purpose of the visit was to “appreciate the Hon. Minister for his immense support and active role during the recent launch of three projects by the Commission.”

“And to commend him for the important role he played in securing the final approval of the 5G National Plan by the Federal Government.”

The NCC EVC/CEO also described the Federal Government’s approval of 5G National Plan as “a development of unprecedented and profound historical significance to the Commission, telecom industry and other economic sectors” in the West African country.

Danbatta assured Pantami of the NCC determination to diligently implement the 5G plan for the overall socio-economic benefits of Nigeria.

Senior Management staff of the telecommunications regulator accompanied Prof. Danbatta on the courtesy visit.

They include Adeleke Adewolu, Executive Commissioner, Stakeholder Management; Josephine Amuwa, Director of Legal and Regulatory Services; Felix Adeoye, Director of Corporate Planning, Strategy and Risk Management; Dr. Ikechukwu Adinde, Director of Public Affairs; and Usman Malah, Director of Human Capital and Administration of  NCC.

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