The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has issued a Framework for the Use of the Lower Part of the 6 GHz Band, covering the 5925 to 6425 MHz range. The framework opens the band to Wireless Access Systems and Radio Local Area Networks (WAS/RLAN), including Wi-Fi 6 applications, on a spectrum license-exempt and shared basis. It sets out the licensing, Type Approval, deployment notification and technical conditions for equipment operating in the band. Anyone involved in the development, production, importation, sale or use of WAS in the lower 6 GHz band must comply with the framework.
Licensing and Spectrum Access in the Lower 6 GHz Band
Access to the lower 6 GHz band is license-exempt, but some users still need authorization from the NCC:
- Shared access: The spectrum is shared, with no exclusive assignment to any license-exempt user for private, public or commercial use.
- Commercial services: License-exempt users offering commercial services must hold the relevant Operational License from the NCC.
- Fixed Services: Fixed Service users, including all outdoor Fixed Service deployments, must obtain a Spectrum Licence to operate in the band.
- Spectrum fees: No spectrum fees apply to license-exempt users.
Type Approval Requirements for WAS/RLAN Equipment
All equipment must be Type-Approved by the NCC before it is imported, deployed, sold or used in Nigeria, in line with Section 132 of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003, the Type Approval Regulations 2024 and the NCC’s Type Approval Business Rules. Applications are made using the standard Type Approval application form available from the NCC.
- Technical compliance: Equipment may only be supplied or sold if it meets the technical provisions of the framework. WAS/RLAN in the band conforms to IEEE 802.11ax and ETSI EN 303 687.
- Frequency range: Type-Approved WAS must not operate outside the lower 6 GHz range.
- Alterations: Users who alter approved equipment face sanctions under Part XI of the Type Approval Regulations 2024.
Device Classes, Power Limits and Channel Arrangement
The framework defines two device classes, each with its own power limits:
- Low Power Indoor (LPI): Indoor use only, including trains and aircraft, with a maximum mean e.i.r.p. of 23 dBm (200 mW) and an in-band e.i.r.p. density of 10 dBm/MHz. Outdoor use, including in road vehicles, is not permitted.
- Very Low Power (VLP): Indoor and outdoor use, except fixed outdoor use, with a maximum e.i.r.p. of 14 dBm (25 mW) and an in-band e.i.r.p. density of 1 dBm/MHz. Use on drones and radio-controlled models is prohibited.
- Spectrum sharing: Both device classes must implement an adequate spectrum-sharing mechanism for channel access and occupation.
- Channel arrangement: Following ETSI EN 303 687 V1.1.1 (2023-06), the band supports 24 non-overlapping 20 MHz channels, 12 at 40 MHz, 6 at 80 MHz and 3 at 160 MHz.
Interference Protection, Notification and Compliance
WAS/RLAN equipment operates on a non-exclusive, non-interference and non-protected basis. The lower 6 GHz band is already used by Fixed links in Nigeria, and licensed Fixed Service users are protected from interference by license-exempt users.
- Harmful interference: WAS/RLAN use that causes harmful interference must stop and may only resume once the interference is resolved. Operators may be required to use mitigation techniques such as antenna discrimination, polarization, frequency offset and power control.
- Deployment notification: Users must notify the NCC when they deploy services in the band using the License Exempt Spectrum Registration Form, and submit data on actual frequency use twice a year or on request.
- EMF exposure: Emissions must comply with the ICNIRP exposure limits.
- Inspections and enforcement: The NCC may inspect systems and devices directly or through a third party, and may issue directives or enforcement measures for non-compliance.
For this article’s source information and any product certification guidance, please contact Global Validity.
Quick Country Facts
Nigeria
Certification Body: Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC)
Certification Type: Mandatory
License Validity: Indefinite
Application Language: English
Legal License Holder: Manufacturer
In-Country Testing Requirement: Testing Not Required
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