The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has issued a Framework for the use of the lower 6 GHz band (5925 to 6425 MHz), published in January 2026 under powers granted by the Nigerian Communications Act 2003 and the Wireless Telegraphy Act 2004. The Framework opens the band for Wireless Access Systems and Radio Local Area Networks, commonly known as WAS/RLAN, on a license-exempt basis, enabling Wi-Fi 6 deployment across the country. It sets out licensing, type approval, and technical conditions that apply to anyone developing, importing, selling, or using WAS equipment in this band. The Commission frames the move as part of a broader effort to make spectrum available for current and future communications needs while protecting existing users of the band.
Why Nigeria Is Opening the Lower 6 GHz Band
Demand for high-bandwidth, low-latency spectrum has driven a wave of new equipment designed for the 6 GHz band, and the NCC’s Framework is its response to that shift. WAS/RLAN operation in the band follows the IEEE 802.11ax and ETSI EN 303 687 standards, positioning Nigeria alongside other markets that have opened similar spectrum for Wi-Fi 6. The lower 6 GHz band is already used by licensed Fixed Service links in Nigeria, so the Framework is also designed to guide coexistence between new license-exempt WAS/RLAN deployments and those existing users.
Licensing, Type Approval, and Notification Requirements
Access to the band is license-exempt and shared, with no exclusive spectrum assignment to any user. Commercial users must still hold the relevant operational license from the NCC, and Fixed Service users deploying outdoors must obtain a separate spectrum license. All equipment must be type-approved by the Commission before importation, sale, or deployment, in line with Section 132 of the NCA 2003 and the Type Approval Regulations 2024. Users are also required to notify the NCC upon deployment using the Commission’s License Exempt Spectrum Registration Form and to submit utilization data on a biannual basis or upon request.
Power Limits for Indoor and Very Low Power Devices
The Framework distinguishes between Low Power Indoor (LPI) devices and Very Low Power (VLP) devices. LPI devices, including those used on trains and aircraft, are restricted to indoor use only, with outdoor use, including in road vehicles, prohibited; they are capped at 23 dBm (200 mW) mean EIRP with an in-band emission density limit of 10 dBm/MHz. VLP devices can be used both indoors and outdoors, except for fixed outdoor deployment, and are capped at 14 dBm (25 mW) EIRP with an in-band emission density limit of 1 dBm/MHz, though their use on drones and radio-controlled models is prohibited. Channel arrangements follow ETSI EN 303 687, offering 24 non-overlapping 20 MHz channels that can also be grouped into wider 40 MHz, 80 MHz, and 160 MHz channels.
Interference Management and What Operators Should Do Now
WAS/RLAN operation in the lower 6 GHz band is non-exclusive, non-interference, and non-protected, meaning licensed Fixed Service users retain protection from interference while license-exempt users must avoid causing it. Where harmful interference occurs, affected systems must be shut down until the issue is resolved, and the NCC may require mitigation measures such as antenna discrimination, polarization adjustment, or power control. Emission exposure must comply with ICNIRP EMF limits, and the Commission retains the right to inspect systems and devices for compliance, either directly or through a third party. Equipment manufacturers, importers, and operators planning Wi-Fi 6 deployments in Nigeria should confirm type approval status and register planned deployments with the NCC ahead of rollout.
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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