The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has issued a pre-enforcement notice, cautioning that any transmission of signals or use of equipment on the 5.4GHz frequency band without a proper frequency license from the Commission is considered illegal.
The warning was conveyed through a press statement signed by Mr. Reuben Muoka, the Director of the Public Affairs Department at the Commission
According to the statement, the NCC emphasized that the 5.4 GHz frequency band, covering the range of 5.430 to 5.725 GHz, is designated as a licensed frequency in Nigeria.
“All telecommunications service providers, private/public organizations or any person(s) using this band in any location across the country should note to Section 122 of the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA), 2003, it that pursuant is a criminal offence to operate in any frequency not duly assigned by the Commission.
“The consequences of such act may lead to imprisonment, sanction and confiscation of equipment used in operating the illegal services.” The commission said.
Also Read: NCC restates commitment to transparency
Enforcement notice
The Commission has issued a 14-day enforcement notice, directing all unlicensed operators on the 5.4GHz frequency band (5.430-5.725GHz) to promptly cease and desist from any further transmission of signals or use of equipment on the band without proper authorization obtained from the NCC.
The Commission emphasized that, after the specified deadline, it will initiate necessary enforcement actions, including but not limited to prosecution, imposing fines, and confiscating equipment involved in the unauthorized transmission of services.
A comprehensive regulatory guidelines for deploying services across the entire 5GHz band are outlined in the “Guidelines for Deployment of Broadband Services on the 5.2-5.9GHz” available at www.ncc.gov.ng, specifically under Licensing and Regulation (Regulatory Functions) for reference and guidance.
