The widespread misinformation and misrepresentation of the 5G technology in Nigeria can derail its implementation despite the huge benefits of the network, the Nigerian Communications Commission said on Tuesday.
Executive Vice Chairman, NCC, Umar Danbatta, made the declaration at a capacity building workshop for information technology reporters in Abuja.
Danbatta said many falsehoods were peddled on both social and traditional media as regards the health and safety implications of deploying the 5G technology in Nigeria.
The NCC boss, who was represented by the commission’s Director of Public Affairs, Ikechukwu Adinde, said, “The misinformation and misrepresentation of 5G technology has the potential of derailing the introduction and implementation of this new technology in our clime.
“Many Nigerians including citizens in more civilised countries are hooked on the notion that the introduction of 5G technology was the reason behind the spread of the novel COVID-19 pandemic.”
He added, “This misconception was even made worse because those saddled with the responsibility of informing, educating and enlightening the average Nigerian telecom consumers were also bereft of the knowledge of this new technology and hitched a ride on the bandwagon of doubters.”
Danbatta said the 5G technology was indispensable in the present technology world, adding that its impact would be much greater than the current 4G network.
The NCC boss quoted a recent report by Qualcomm, which predicted that 5G would affect the global economy and drive its growth exponentially.
He said, “5G’s full economic effect will likely be realised across the globe by 2035, supporting a wide range of industries and potentially enabling up to $13.2tn worth of goods and services.
“This impact will be much greater than the current 4G network. When fully deployed, 5G will provide increased speed and bandwidth as well as provide deeper coverage to reach people in rural or challenging locations.”
Danbatta urged Nigerians to support the move to upgrade to the 5G network, adding that technology would provide strong security for the various sectors of government and private organisations.
