NCC warns network operators against unauthorised use of 5.4GHz frequency band

*The Nigerian Communications Commission warns all unlicensed network operators on 5.4GHz frequency band spanning 5.430 725GHz, to vacate and desist from further transmission of signals or use of equipment in any form on this band without due authorisation from the telecoms sector regulatory Commission

Gbenga Kayode | ConsumerConnect

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has informed the network operators, private/public organisations, and the public that the 5.4 GHz frequency band, spanning 5.430 – 5.725 GHz range, is a licensed frequency in the country.

ConsumerConnect reports the NCC stated this in a recent 14-day Enforcement Notice Mr. Reuben Muoka, Director of Public Affairs at Commission signed and issued via the NCC corporate Web site.

The telecoms sector regulator also warned all unlicensed operators on the said 5.4GHz frequency band, spanning 5.430 725GHz forthwith, “to vacate and desist from further transmission of signals or use of equipment in any form on this band without authorisation obtained.”

Infringement on frequency band a criminal offence in Nigeria: Regulator

The Commission also stated: “Therefore, the transmission of signals or use of equipment in any form on this band without a Frequency licence obtained from the Commission is illegal.

“All telecommunications service providers, private/public organisations or any person(s) using this band in any location across the country should note that pursuant to Section 122 of the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA) 2003, it is a criminal offence to operate in any frequency not duly assigned by the Commission.”

The NCC further cautioned that the consequences of such an act may “lead to imprisonment, sanction and confiscation of equipment used in operating the illegal services.”

The Enforcement Notice said: “In view of the above, the Commission hereby gives a 14-day Enforcement Notice to all unlicensed operators on the 5.4GHz frequency band, spanning 5.430 725GHz to, forthwith, vacate and desist from further transmission of signals or use of equipment in any form on this band without authorisation.”

The Director of Public Affairs further noted that the Commission “shall, without further recourse and upon expiration of the stipulated deadline, commence appropriate enforcement action including, but not limited to prosecution, fine, and confiscation of equipment used in the illegal transmission of services.”

NCC stated that a detailed regulatory provision for the deployment of services on the entire 5GHz band is contained in the Guidelines for Deployment of Broadband Services on the 5.2-5.9GHz band.

“This is available at www.ncc.gov.ng, under Licensing and Regulation (Regulatory Functions) for guidance. This is a pre-enforcement notice,” said the Commission.