LEGAL FRAMEWORK FOR REGULATING 5G DEPLOYMENT IN NIGERIA: CHALLENGES AND PROSPECTS

Abstract

The introduction of Fifth Generation (5G) mobile network technology marks a major development in the global shift towards digital progress. This technology brings about faster data transfer speed and improved connectivity, which are essential for supporting innovative fields such as artificial intelligence, technological innovations, and digital governance. In Nigeria, the introduction of 5G technology holds great promise for driving economic development, enhancing the delivery of public services, and contributing to national progress. However, the complexity and importance of 5G infrastructure also bring about important legal, regulatory, security, and health-related issues that require a well-structured and unified regulatory approach. Although Nigeria has existing laws and regulatory bodies overseeing telecommunications, these were mainly developed for earlier mobile network generations and have not been able to fully address the specific needs of 5G technology. This paper uses a doctrinal approach, focusing on the analysis of relevant statutes and regulations. The paper concludes that while Nigeria has a basic legal and institutional structure for managing telecommunications, there are still major areas where the system falls short when it comes to dealing with the technical, security, and economic impacts of 5G technology. To address these challenges, the paper suggests creating specific regulatory tools for 5G, improving coordination between different agencies, increasing efforts to enforce cybersecurity and data protection measures, and developing better ways to inform the public about the benefits and risks of 5G technology.