OPERATORS SEEK UPPER 6GHZ SPECTRUM TO REDUCE NETWORK CONGESTION

Telecommunications operators have called for the allocation of the upper 6GHz spectrum band to mobile services, saying it could help reduce network congestion and improve connectivity.

The operators said increasing demand for mobile data and digital services has placed growing pressure on existing network capacity, making additional spectrum important for improving service delivery.

The upper 6GHz band is part of the radio-frequency spectrum that can be used to support high-capacity wireless networks. Allocating it for mobile services could provide operators with additional capacity in areas experiencing heavy traffic.

Industry stakeholders have argued that access to more spectrum would help telecommunications companies manage increasing data consumption while improving network performance.

The demand comes as Nigeria’s telecommunications sector continues to experience rapid growth in mobile internet usage, driven by smartphones, streaming, digital payments, social media and other online services.

Operators also noted that spectrum availability needs to be accompanied by investments in network infrastructure to ensure that additional capacity translates into better services for consumers.

Regulators are expected to consider competing demands for the band, including existing and potential uses by other services.

The operators maintained that making more spectrum available for mobile broadband would support Nigeria’s digital economy and help telecommunications providers meet the growing demand for reliable connectivity.