NCC dismises 5G, Covid-19 fears


By Content Nigeria reporter
April 6, 2020

News

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has moved to assure the public that there is no correlation between 5G technology and the Covid-19 pandemic.

Henry Nkemadu

Despite a lack of evidence, rumours and conspiracy theories have spread online in Nigeria and other countries linking the deployment of 5G with the outbreak.

NCC public affairs director Henry Nkemadu said 5G was merely an advancement on today’s 4G technology, designed to transform the world positively.

“The NCC, back in November 2019, approved trial test for 5G for a period of three months, and the trial has been concluded and installation decommissioned,” he said. “The trial, among others, was to study and observe any health or security challenges the 5G network might present. Relevant stakeholders, including members of the security agencies, were invited to participate during the trial.”

Nkemadu added that the NCC would continue to maintain its policy of technology neutrality and to encourage service providers to deploy the best technology to meet the needs of society in a secure and friendly manner.

In same vein, the minister of communications and digital economy, Isa Ali Ibrahim, confirmed in a press statement that no licence has been issued for the deployment of 5G network services in Nigeria.

“The National Frequency Management Council, of which I am the chairman, has not deliberated on or released any bulk frequency spectrum for the deployment of 5G. No licence has been issued for the deployment of 5G in the country,” the statement read.

“As part of the study trial process, I directed the Nigerian Communications Commission to ensure that a team of experts, security agencies and other stakeholders fully participate in the trial process and my office also invited these agencies to participate in the trial; and the trial process has been concluded and the study and reporting process is currently ongoing.

“Our desire for technological advancement will never be at the expense of the health and welfare of our citizens. The federal government will not act on the speculations only, but rather we will take an informed decision on 5G after due consultation with experts and the public.

“We advise you all to remain rest assured that government will always take the welfare, health and security of the public into account while considering the deployment of any technology.”

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