5G: Era of Innovation, Connectivity

The recent launch of Airtel’s 5G network across four states in Nigeria, with plans to cover the entire country by the end of the year, positions it as top contender in next generation of digital communications that will herald a new era of innovation and connectivity, writes Emma Okonji

In a ground-breaking move, Airtel Nigeria, three weeks ago, unveiled its 5G network in four states, heralding a new era of connectivity and innovation in Nigeria’s technology space.

In order to enable all telecoms subscribers across the country experience the new wave of 5G, Airtel, during the launch, promised to roll out its 5G network across the country by the end of the year.

Paired with the introduction of affordable 5G devices, the launch promises to transform the tech landscape, offering unparalleled opportunities for entrepreneurs, innovators, and for those in the creative industry.

The introduction of 5G by Airtel Nigeria represents a pivotal moment in the telecommunications industry as it further improves access to fast connections across the country.

5G Network

With remarkably improved download and upload speeds, notably lower latency, and more reliable connectivity, 5G is set to revolutionise how Nigerians interact with technology. According to industry experts, 5G is projected to be up to 100 times faster than 4G, with latency as low as one millisecond. This level of connectivity will supercharge a wide range of applications, including cloud computing, telemedicine, cloud gaming, Augmented Reality (AR) Virtual Reality (VR), Internet of Things (IoT) and smart homes.

According to a recent report, 5G is projected to contribute $2.2 trillion to the global economy by 2034, and Airtel’s foray into 5G, positions Nigeria at the forefront of the technological revolution, offering its customers the opportunity to harness the immense potential of the transformative network.

Airtel’s Assurance

Speaking at the event, Airtel’s CEO, Carl Cruz emphasised the transformative potential of 5G, stating that, “5G ushers in a new era of innovation that breaks boundaries and presents a new wave of economic benefits for this generation and the next, and we cannot wait to see how young people all over the country explore this new world of instant and unbroken connections to unleash a revolution in creativity.”

According to him, the advent of 5G creates a fertile ground for innovation across various sectors.

“With 5G, we can only be limited by the limits of our imagination,” Cruz said, adding that the sentiment perfectly aligns with Airtel’s current marketing campaign, ‘A Reason to Imagine’, which seeks to inspire individuals to dream big. “The campaign signifies the company’s commitment to inspiring and empowering its customers to explore new frontiers and achieve more. With 5G technology, Airtel is making it possible for individuals and businesses in various industries, such as tech, medicine, fashion, retail, communications, and media, to explore new frontiers and bring ambitious ideas to life.

“The launch of Airtel’s 5G network has the potential to significantly impact Nigeria’s economy. With faster and more reliable connectivity, businesses can optimize their operations, driving efficiency and productivity. For instance, industries like telemedicine can flourish with 5G’s low latency, enabling real-time consultations and remote surgeries,” Cruz further said.

5G As Enabler

With its incredibly low latency, 5G allows for seamless and instantaneous communication between healthcare professionals and patients, regardless of their physical locations.

Real-time consultations through 5G-powered telemedicine can greatly improve access to healthcare, particularly for individuals in rural or underserved areas. Patients can connect with doctors remotely, receiving prompt medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment plans without the need for in-person visits. This not only saves time and travel costs but also reduces the strain on healthcare facilities and resources.

According to a report by Grand View Research, the global telemedicine market is expected to reach a value of $559.52 billion by 2027, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 22.4 per cent. The integration of 5G technology into telemedicine is projected to be a key driver for this growth, as it overcomes the limitations of previous network generations, enabling high-quality and uninterrupted video consultations and data transmission.

Furthermore, 5G will foster the growth of cutting-edge technologies such as augmented and virtual reality, enabling businesses to enhance customer experiences and develop new revenue streams. The Internet of Things (IoT) will also thrive, revolutionizing how industries manage their assets and collect valuable data for smarter decision-making.

According to recent market reports, the global 5G technology market is projected to reach a value of $667.9 billion by 2026, with a significant portion expected to come from emerging markets like Nigeria. In Nigeria specifically, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) estimates that the 5G network has the potential to generate an additional $140 billion to the country’s economy within the next decade.

Stakeholders’ Views

Industry stakeholders who strongly believe in the efficacy of 5G, have said Airtel’s strategic entry into the 5G space is well timed to position the company as a major contender in the race for technological dominance in the region.

According to them, as Nigeria embraces this new era of connectivity, it is crucial for policymakers and stakeholders to collaborate and foster an enabling environment that supports the rapid deployment and adoption of 5G technology.

To fully harness the potential of 5G, the stakeholders are of the view that Nigeria must invest in the necessary infrastructure and ensure regulatory frameworks that promote healthy competition, innovation, and consumer protection.

Collaborative efforts between the government, telecommunications providers, and other relevant stakeholders are essential in addressing challenges such as spectrum allocation, infrastructure deployment, and cybersecurity. By actively supporting the rapid deployment and adoption of 5G technology, Nigeria can attract foreign investments, stimulate job creation, and enhance its global competitiveness, some of the stakeholders said.

With a thriving 5G ecosystem, the country can unlock opportunities for digital transformation, entrepreneurship, and socioeconomic development, propelling Nigeria into a brighter and prosperous future.