The National Communications Authority (NCA) has initiated the process to revoke the 5G exclusivity clause held by Next-Gen Infraco (NGIC).

The regulator announced on Wednesday that it has issued a formal Notice of Proposed Licence Amendment to NGIC, pursuant to Section 14 of the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775).

The amendment, if finalized, would remove the clause that currently grants NGIC exclusive rights to operate fifth-generation (5G) network services.

The NCA stated that the decision is driven by the public interest, with the goal of fostering a more dynamic and competitive market.

By opening up the 5G space, the Authority aims to stimulate innovation, enhance consumer choice and service quality, and accelerate the nation's digital transformation agenda. The move is also framed as a measure to ensure the "optimal and efficient use of spectrum as a national resource."

According to Section 14 of Act 775, the proposed amendment is set to take effect ninety (90) days from the date of the notice. However, this timeline could be adjusted based on any representations made by NGIC during the statutory notice period.

In a separate but related disclosure, the NCA noted that NGIC is currently in default of its licence fee instalment payments, as stipulated in its licence conditions.

The Authority confirmed it is addressing this breach "in accordance with the applicable licence conditions and statutory provisions."

Despite the regulatory actions and the reported default, the press release also highlighted NGIC’s recent rollout of 5G infrastructure.

The company has so far installed 49 5G sites across the country, with a heavy concentration in the Greater Accra Region, which hosts 43 of the sites. Other regions with operational sites include Ashanti (2), Western (1), Northern (1), Bono (1), and Central (1).

The NCA has sought to reassure stakeholders that the proposed amendment follows due process and is consistent with its mandate to regulate communications services in a manner that safeguards the national interest.

The Authority reiterated its commitment to "transparent, fair, and predictable regulation to ensure sustainable investment, competition, and growth in Ghana's communications sector."