By Sarauniya Usman,Abuja
The Federal Government said no license has been issued for tthe deployment of Fifth Generation Mobile Networks (5G) in Nigeria.
Honourable Minister of Communications and Digital Economy,Dr Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, in a statement said,based on available records at my office and the earlier report received from the regulator,the National Frequency Management Council (NFMC), of which he is the Chairman, as not deliberated on or released any bulk frequency spectrum for the deployment of 5G.
He further said,a 3-month study trial is ongoing since 25th of November, 2019 in order to critically review and study the health and security implications of deploying 5G in Nigeria.
He added that as part of the study trial process, He has directed the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) 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.
“The trial process has been concluded and the study and reporting process is currently ongoing”.
He further said, President Muhammadu Buhari, places a premium on the welfare, health and security of Nigerians. As such,our desire for technological advancement will never be at the expense of the health and welfare of our citizens.
However, government will not act on speculations only, but rather we will take an informed decision on 5G after due consultation with experts and the public.
He directives has been given to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), to engage citizens on any questions or concerns they may have regarding 5G.
He thanked the general public for reaching out on this issue. “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”.
