Airtel emerges sole bidder for new 5G spectrum auction

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced Airtel network Limited as the sole bidder for the new 5G spectrum auction as contained in the Information Memorandum (IM).

The Commission made this known yesterday in a statement signed by its Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka.

The statement reads: “The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) hereby announces that by the close of business on Monday, December 5, 2022, only two companies expressed interest in the auction of the 3.5GHz Spectrum band namely, Airtel Networks Limited (Airtel) and Standard Network & Connections Limited (Standard Network).

“However, only Airtel paid the Intention to Bid Deposit (IBD) as stipulated in the Information Memorandum (IM) whereas Standard Network sent an email appeal for the deadline to be extended by 12 working days, which was not acceptable in view of the auction timetable.

“Having met all the provisions in the IM, Airtel has, therefore, emerged as the sole bidder.

“Consequently, there shall be no further bidding and the Commission will proceed to the Assignment Stage in line with the published Information Memorandum guiding the licensing process.”