NCC Approves Airtel As Sole Bidder For 3.5GHz Spectrum Band, Standard Networks Disqualified

Airtel has emerged as the sole bidder for the 3.5GHz spectrum band following the disqualification of its only competing bidder, Standard Network, the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC disclosed late on Wednesday.

GWG.ng reports that though Airtel and Standard Network indicated interest by submitting expression of interest proposals, Standard Network did not complete its bid by paying the required Intention to Bid Deposit as at the end of work on Monday, December 5, 2022.

GWG.ng reports that Standard Network had pleaded for a 12 day extension to enable it pay the IBD, a plea that was turned down by the NCC.

A statement by Ruben Mouka, director of public affairs at NCC confirming Airtel as sole bidder for the 3.5GHz spectrum band read thus:

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;

      i.          Airtel Networks Limited (Airtel) and

    ii.          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 twelve (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.

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.

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