By Yinka Olumide
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has said on that Airtel Networks Ltd emerged as sole bidder for the new 5G 3.5GHz spectrum auction as at close of business on Monday.
The National Communications Communication which supervised the auction said only two companies Airtel Networks Limited and Standard Network and Connections Limited (Standard Networks) expressed interest in the auction of the 3.5GHz Spectrum band.
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However, only Airtel paid the Intention to Bid Deposit (IBD) as stipulated in the Information Memorandum (IM) whereas, Standard Network sent an email appealing for an extension of the deadline by 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.