MTN Nigeria on Thursday confirmed that it would roll out a 5G network by Aug. 24.

The mobile operator disclosed this at the 90th edition of the telecom consumer parliament, organised by the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC in Lagos.

The News Agency of Nigeria ( NAN) reports that in May, the NCC handed over the final letters of award of 5G spectrum licences to winners of the December 3.5GHz spectrum auctions.

They were mandated to roll out services in August by NCC.

Reacting to the mandate during a panel discussion, the representative of MTN Nigeria, Mr Chinedu Ezeigweneme, said MTN had put plans in place and working with all relevant stakeholders to ensure a smooth rollout.

We have put all plans in place. We have discussed with relevant stakeholders and I can assure you that come Aug. 24, MTN will roll out 5G services,

Ezeigweneme said.

NCC, during the parliament discussion, stakeholders dispelled the fears that 5G network had health implications.

Director, Technical Standards and Network Integrity at NCC, Dr. Bako Wakil who presented a paper on the theme of the parliament, said there was no relevant health and safety authority had confirmed any health hazards arising from 5G network.

Wakil however said Industry collaboration was key to the successful deployment of 5G Services in Nigeria and urged industry stakeholders to stand with the Commission to explore the prospects and potentials of the new technology, which was enormous.

Wakil said 5G would provide many benefits and opportunities that would accelerate growth and smart living in the country.

He said the technology is expected to bring substantial network improvements, including higher connection speed, mobility and capacity, as well as low-latency capabilities.

NAN reports that the theme of the meeting was “5G Technology: Opportunities and Challenges.

Justin Nwosu

Justin Nwosu is the founder and publisher of Flavision. His core interest is in writing unbiased news about Nigeria in particular and Africa in general. He’s a strong adherent of investigative journalism, with a bent on exposing corruption, abuse of power and societal ills.