NCA Moves to Scrap 5G Exclusivity Clause in NGIC Licence

The National Communications Authority (NCA) has announced plans to amend the licence of Next-Gen Infraco (NGIC) to remove its 5G exclusivity rights.

In a statement issued on March 4, 2026, the NCA disclosed that it has served NGIC with a Notice of Proposed Licence Amendment under Section 14 of the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775). The proposed change seeks to eliminate the clause granting NGIC exclusive rights to provide 5G services.

According to the Authority, the decision is intended to serve the public interest by encouraging competition and innovation in 5G service delivery. It is also expected to broaden consumer choice, improve service quality, speed up nationwide digital transformation, and promote the efficient use of spectrum as a national asset.

The NCA explained that under Section 14 of Act 775, the amendment will come into effect 90 days after the notice is issued, unless a different determination is made after reviewing any submissions by the licensee within the statutory notice period.

The Authority assured the public that the process complies with legal requirements and is consistent with its mandate to regulate the communications sector in a way that protects the national interest.

In a related update, the NCA revealed that NGIC has so far deployed 49 5G sites across the country 43 in the Greater Accra Region, two in the Ashanti Region, and one each in the Western, Northern, Bono and Central regions.

The regulator further disclosed that NGIC has defaulted on an instalment payment of its licence fees, as outlined in the Schedule of Licence Fee Payments under its licence conditions. The issue, the NCA said, is being handled in line with the applicable licence terms and statutory provisions.

The Authority reiterated its commitment to transparent, fair and predictable regulation aimed at fostering sustainable investment, competition and growth in Ghana’s telecommunications industry.