The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has narrowed down to just three telecom companies to bid for the 3.5Ghz Spectrum Auction and ultimately, qualify them to launch and deploy 5G network in the country.
In a statement issued and signed by its Director of Public Affairs, Dr. Ikechukwu Adinde, the telecom regulator disclosed that three telecoms companies have qualitied as approved bidders of the forthcoming 3.5 gigahertz (Ghz) spectrum auction for the deployment of Fifth generation (5G) networks in the country are MTN Nigeria Plc., Mafab Communications Limited and Airtel Networks Limited.
“Consistent with its regulatory principle of open and transparent auction, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced that three telecoms companies have qualitied as approved bidders of the forthcoming 3.5 gigahertz (Ghz) spectrum auction for the deployment of Fifth generation (5G) networks in the country,” the statement announced.
It added that the qualified bidders have met the criteria for participation in the licensing process of 3.5Ghz spectrum, including payment of the stipulated Intention to Bid Deposit (IBD) as outlined in the Information Memorandum (IM).
Consequently, the stage is now set for the three companies to participate in the Main Auction as well as in the mandatory Mock Auction process, which will come as a precursor to the Main Auction.
The Commission has also reaffirmed the dates for the conduct of both the Mock Auction and the Main Auction. The Mock Auction is scheduled to hold on Friday, December 10, 2021 at Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja by 11:00 a.m., while the Main Auction will hold on Monday, December 13, 2021 at the same venue and same time.