NCA moves to end NGIC’s 5G exclusivity, opens door for competition

The National Communications Authority (NCA) has initiated steps to dismantle Next-Gen Infraco’s (NGIC) exclusive hold on Ghana’s 5G market, signalling a major policy shift that could see multiple operators enter the high-speed broadband space.

In a notice published March 4, 2026, the regulator announced a proposed amendment to NGIC’s licence that would remove the exclusivity clause granting the company sole rights to operate 5G services in Ghana. The move comes pursuant to Section 14 of the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775).

If confirmed after the statutory 90-day consultation period, the amendment would end NGIC’s monopoly and potentially allow other telecommunications operators to deploy their own 5G infrastructure independently.

Regulatory Rationale

The NCA stated that the proposed amendment serves the public interest by:

· Promoting competition and innovation in 5G service provision
· Enhancing consumer choice and service quality
· Accelerating nationwide digital transformation
· Ensuring optimal and efficient use of spectrum as a national resource

The Authority emphasised that the process follows due procedure and aligns with its mandate to regulate communications services in the national interest.

NGIC’s Operational Status

The regulatory development comes at a critical moment for NGIC, which recently received clearance to commence full commercial operations as Ghana’s wholesale 4G and 5G infrastructure provider. The company has deployed 49 operational 5G sites across six regions, with 43 located in Greater Accra and the remainder in Ashanti, Western, Northern, Bono, and Central regions.

Under its wholesale-first model, NGIC builds and operates shared radio and core infrastructure while mobile network operators provide retail services to consumers. The network is currently live in selected areas of Accra, Kumasi, and Tamale.

Industry Reaction

NGIC Chief Executive Officer Tenu Awoonor described the company’s operational launch as a milestone for Ghana’s digital ambitions.

“Today, Ghana moves from 5G ambition to 5G execution. The shared backbone is commercially active and positioned to scale,” Awoonor said. “This structure allows infrastructure investment to be coordinated nationally while preserving innovation and competition at the retail layer.”

He added that achieving the government’s target of 70 per cent 5G population coverage by Ghana’s 70th Independence Anniversary would require coordinated effort. “The shared architecture ensures investment is directed toward expanding reach rather than duplicating infrastructure.”

Chief Operating Officer Nenyi George Andah noted that the company’s focus has shifted to expansion. “The backbone is active. The framework is clear. The responsibility now is execution—scaling coverage in a coordinated and sustainable manner.”

Technology partner Nokia reaffirmed its commitment to the rollout. Mustapha Salah, Head of Central West and East Africa, Mobile Networks at Nokia, said the neutral-host shared network enables all mobile operators to bring high-speed data to consumers efficiently while driving socio-economic growth.

Licence Compliance Issues

The NCA’s notice also disclosed that NGIC is in default of a licence fee instalment payment under the agreed schedule forming part of its licence conditions. The Authority indicated it is addressing the matter in accordance with applicable statutory provisions.

Market Implications

The twin developments—potential removal of 5G exclusivity and concerns over fee compliance—signal a critical juncture for Ghana’s evolving telecommunications market. While NGIC’s wholesale model remains central to national broadband ambitions, the regulator’s proposed amendment suggests a recalibration designed to deepen competition and maximise strategic use of spectrum as a national resource.

Industry observers note that opening the 5G market could accelerate deployment, reduce prices for consumers, and spur innovation in services ranging from IoT to enterprise solutions.

The amendment will take effect 90 days from the notice date unless, after considering representations from NGIC within the statutory period, the Authority determines otherwise.