ASSESSING THE PROSPECTS AND BARRIERS TO 5G IMPLEMENTATION IN NIGERIA

Abstract

This paper investigates the prospects and barriers linked to the deployment of 5G technology in Nigeria, placing the discussion within the broader context of global advancements in telecommunications. With increasing demand for higher data speeds and more reliable network connectivity, 5G presents transformative opportunities for sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, finance, and transportation. Based on a review of current literature and available data, the study highlights the anticipated advantages of 5G, including enhanced healthcare delivery through telemedicine, improved agricultural practices via Internet of Things (IoT) applications, and richer user experiences in entertainment services. However, the research also identifies several critical barriers to 5G implementation in Nigeria. Key challenges include an unstable power supply, the high cost of infrastructure development, limited access to fibre optic networks, and widespread public concern regarding the potential health risks of electromagnetic exposure. Through an assessment of these issues and the current state of Nigeria’s telecom infrastructure, the paper emphasizes the importance of robust policy development and multi-stakeholder cooperation to realize the full potential of 5G for national progress. It further recommends that both government bodies and private investors focus on strengthening essential infrastructure particularly in expanding fibre optic coverage and ensuring consistent electricity supply. The study also supports enhanced collaboration between regulators and telecom providers to enable infrastructure sharing and lower deployment costs. Lastly, it advocates for the creation of clear, supportive regulatory frameworks to streamline spectrum allocation, reduce operational expenses, and accelerate the approval processes for new technology infrastructure.