WorldStage Newsonline– Leading telecommunication service provider, MTN Nigeria on Monday in Abuja it performed a 5G trial Live Demonstration to unveil the experience of the future
The demonstration was in line with the Telco’s decision to roll out 5G in major cities in Nigeria by 2020.
Speaking at the MTN 5G trial event, Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr Isa Ali Pantami, said the approval for the 5G deployment cannot come from the regulator or the ministry, but must await the endorsement of President Muhammadu Buhari.
“So because of this, the President directed me to wish you all the best. And that is why I’m here also, not only on my capacity as the minister, but also representing the president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“Federal Government of Nigeria most importantly, the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari is so passionate about ICT development in the country.
“He is so passionate about that, looking at how the country contribution of ICT to our domestic product is increasing by the day. So each country has its own most important and critical sectors. And today, ICT sector is one of the most critical sectors we have in Nigeria.”
Pantami, however noted that the federal government was worried about the various challenges telcos were facing, especially in the area of vandalization of their facilities, and assured that the government will address the various challenges.
He said: “And you have so many challenges. Government recognizes the situation and the challenges you are facing and the President has directed by the day to make sure that we are making progress in alleviating and removing the challenges.
“So in real sense, we are all worried and we are working day in day out to make sure that the environment is very conducive for you to do your business. And I’m assuring you, it will be much much better. By the time we went to the big screen and leave our offices , The trail of 5G today that we have witnessed and I believe that security and media personalities will take note.
“What MTN is doing today is the 5G trail, not the actual deployment of 5G, we do have the desire it will be very successful. And after the trial, then they will liaise with the regulators about the deployment.”
On his part, MTN Board Chairman and former NCC Executive Vice Chairman, Ernest Ndukwe explained that the 5G will be deployed once the enabling environment has been provided.
He further said that the 5G network has a lot of potential for the security services and the efficiency the technology provides for drones.
He said, “And of course people ask when 5G comes on scene, will the enabling environment be provided? I’m not just talking about MTN. MTN are leading today, and with the rest of the companies they’ll go ahead to make sure that Nigeria remains at the forefront of technology.
“And we also asked about all that issues about security and all that all those things will be taken on board when the role out starts. The regulator is here. So, of course, rules of engagement will be provided. And that will enable us to make sure that things are done in a way that is very much in line with the aspirations of the country and the requirements of the country.”
Other dignitries at the 5G trailer Demonstration event include: Executive Vice Chairman of NCC, Prof Umar Garba Danbatta; Board Chairman of NCC, Senator Olabiyi Durojaiye, Former Super Eagles Captain, Joseph Yobo among others.
