The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has warned against the unauthorised use of the 5.4GHz frequency band.
In a document yesterday, NCC informed operators, private/public organisations and the public that the 5.4GHz frequency band spanning 5.430 to 5.725GHz range is a licensed frequency in Nigeria.
“It said therefore, the transmission of signals or use of equipment in any form on this band without a frequency license obtained from the Commission is illegal,” it said.
NCC, in a document signed by its Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka, said 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 criminal to operate in any frequency not duly assigned by the Commission.
According to the telecoms regulator, the consequences of such acts may lead to imprisonment, sanction and confiscation of equipment used in operating the illegal services.
“Given 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 the further transmission of signals or use of equipment in any form on this band without authorisation obtained from the Commission.
“The Commission shall, without further recourse and upon expiration of the stipulated deadline, commence appropriate enforcement action including, but not limited to prosecution, fines and confiscation of equipment used in the illegal transmission of services,” it stated.
NCC said 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.
