By Mercy Peter
The Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC has approved spectrum reassignments.
NCC said the approval involved a series of spectrum trades and reassignments, including the reallocation of approximately 50 MHz of previously underutilised spectrum for immediate network expansion.
The essence, according to the telecom regulator, is to enhance spectrum efficiency and service delivery.
Spectrum reassignment is a regulatory process of taking radio frequency spectrum that was previously assigned to one type of service or user and reallocating it for another, usually to support new technologies or more efficient usage.
These measures, NCC said, have resulted in improvements in network performance, as reflected in independent monthly reports since September 2025.
“In particular, the reassignment of an additional contiguous 10 MHz to Globacom contributed to an increase in its average 4G download speeds from 9.5 Mbps to approximately 15 Mbps by November/December 2025.
The NCC informed that to further strengthen spectrum optimisation, service quality, and long-term network planning, the Commission has developed Nigeria’s first structured Spectrum Roadmap for the communications sector.
Through the roadmap, the NCC said it sets out strategic direction on spectrum utilisation, future assignments, refarming initiatives and flexible access models to support expanding connectivity, emerging technologies and improved consumer experience. It will also enhance the Commission’s capacity to proactively monitor utilisation, address persistent underuse, and implement targeted regulatory interventions.
According to the Commission, public consultation on the draft has been concluded, and approval and issuance are expected following the next meeting of the Commission’s board.
