Airtel, Standard Network Ltd express interest for 3.5GHz spectrum – NCC

By CALLISTUS OFFOR, Abuja –

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has said only two companies expressed interest in the auction of the 3.5GHz spectrum.

The NCC’s Director, Public Affairs, Dr Reuben Mouka, said in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja that the companies were: Airtel Networks Ltd and Standard Network & Connections Ltd.

Mouka said that only Airtel paid the Intention to Bid Deposit (IBD) as stipulated in the Information Memorandum (IM).

He said that 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 provision in the IM, Airtel has, therefore, emerged as the sole bidder,” he said.

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