…Says no licence issued for 5G deployment as 3 month study trial ends in February
By Dwelleth Morountodun
The Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Mr. Ibrahim Pantami on Saturday debunked insinuations making the rounds that the evolution of 5G Mobile Networks may probably be responsible for the cause and spread of the deadly CoronaVirus across the globe.
In a signed statement, the Minister admitted that his attention has been drawn to the public concern about the health implications of the deployment of 5G networks across the country.
Making further clarifications, he said: “Based on available records at his disposal, the National Frequency Management Council (NFMC), of which I am the Chairman, has not deliberated on or released any bulk frequency spectrum for the deployment of 5G, No license has been issued for the deployment of 5G in the country.
“A 3-month study trial commenced on the 25th of November, 2019 in
order to critically review and study the health and security implications of deploying 5G in Nigeria.
“As part of the study trial process, I directed the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to ensure that a team of experts, security agencies and other stakeholders fully participate in the trial process and my office also invited these agencies to participate in the trial.
“The trial process has been concluded and the study and reporting process is currently ongoing.”
According to him, President Muhammadu Buhari, places a premium on the welfare, health and security of Nigerians, adding that the country’s desire for technological advancement will never be at the expense of the
health and welfare of our citizens.
He said: “Government will not act on speculations only, but rather we will take an informed decision on 5G after due consultation with experts and the public.
He further directed
NCC to engage citizens on any questions or concerns they may have regarding 5G.
“I wish to thank the general public for reaching out to us on this
issue. We advise you all to remain rest assured that government will
always take the welfare, health and security of the public into account while considering the deployment of any technology.” He said.