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The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has approved a five-month extension for roll out of 5G network by Mafab Communications.
The extension is coming amidst industry optimism that no less than 2,000 new jobs will be created through rollout of 5G network.
Mafab and MTN Nigeria were the two winners of the 5G spectrum licences last December. Under the terms of the 5G licence, the two companies are expected to rollout 5G services beginning August 24, 2022.
But the telecoms regulator has issued Mafab a five-month extension following the delays in receiving its unified operational licence, (USAL) and Numbering Plan – made available only at the end of July.
“We are fully committed to bringing the benefits of 5G services to Nigerians and deploying a network that will drive economic development with increased broadband capabilities nationwide,” said Chairman, Mafab Communications Limited, Dr. Mushabu Bashir in an official statement.
“I have no doubt that the service will help deliver improvements in the fields of education, business, smart cities and entertainment. The goal remains to launch before the five-month extension period and we will be sharing more information in the near future” he added.
5G will spur new jobs
With about 204,214,647 active GSM subscribers as at May 2022 in Nigeria largely on 3G/4G networks, Nigeria’s 5G run looks very promising.
The industry is optimistic 5G operation will add about 2,000 jobs by Q1, 2023 with MTN Nigeria leading the charge.
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According to Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Prof. Umar Danbatta, 5G will spur expansive growth across sectors. The Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) including fintech and e-commerce platforms, will benefit tremendously from 5G rollout.
The industry agrees with the regulator and sees new job opportunities requiring suitable skilling of manpower in new technologies and in subsectors that include Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality, Blockchain, Internet of Things, among others.
Mafab was incorporated on the 8th of July, 2020 and licensed by the Nigerian Telecommunications commission to provide and operate Local Interconnect and International carrier services.
