Multinational mobile telecommunications company, MTN has officially launched its 5G network, known as the fifth-generation technology, in Nigeria.
The company first launched the 5G in Lagos with plans to roll out the service in Abuja, Kano, Owerri, Port Harcourt, Ibadan, and Maiduguri later in the year.
MTN also disclosed plans to have a nationwide 5G coverage by 2025. However, the telecommunications giant said the rollout would be done in batches.
During the launch, guests were allowed to test and use the technology and experience some of the use cases of the new 5G network.
While MTN has now rolled out its 5G network, Mafab Communications Limited, the other telecommunication firm with a 5G license is yet to roll out 5G.
Speaking at the launch, Chief Executive Officer, MTN Nigeria, Karl Toriola, said, “Every major technological evolution changes the way we live, the way we connect; changes what is possible.
“GSM took phone calls on the road, 2G added texting to our experience (and created a whole new language), 3G brought the internet to our phones, and 4G made video widely available on mobiles.
“5G will change everything. It will allow us to connect, create, collaborate, and compete in ways we cannot imagine yet. Today we will show you a glimpse of the many possibilities 5G has in store. What is most important is what you and every Nigerian can create with it.”
Also, the Executive Vice Chairman of NCC, Prof. Umar Danbatta, while commenting on the launch of the 5G technology, said, “Today, we are celebrating the outcome of the successful auction of the 5G spectrum, we are celebrating the commercial launch of 5G services in the country. This puts the country in the global 5G space and from today many of you will experience the super speed associated with 5G.”