There are many cities around the world that are currently benefitting from having a 5G network. While there are talks of bringing 5G technology to Nigeria, Professor Umar Danbatta, the Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission or NCC, has said that misinformation is damaging that process. There are a lot of misconceptions that are delaying its introduction and this could mean the new technology is further delayed.
What is 5G?
5G or 5th generation mobile network is a new and improved type of wireless technology. It leads on from 4G and it has a lot of advantages it can offer smartphone users. There is a reduction in latency, which means that your smartphone can become more responsive when you are using apps or surfing the web. It also means that gamers will see a big difference when they are enjoying their favorite console and computer games. Better connectivity and capacity allow you to have a better experience online.
What is the Misinformation in Nigeria?
The benefits of 5G technology would mean that internet users in Nigeria would enjoy better speed and bandwidth. For instance, anybody browsing the internet for work or playing at a Nigerian Casino with friends would be able to do so without any interruptions. Wat’s more, 5G is likely to offer coverage to areas that have never experienced such a good network for their devices. This can include rural areas and places that have difficult terrain. Not only will the public benefit, but businesses and the government will not.
However, there has been a lot of misinformation being spread across the world that 5G technology is the cause of current world problems such as the pandemic. Conspiracy theories have surfaced online and some of the Nigerian public believe what they are reading. There have been some rumors spreading about whether 5G poses a risk to human health. This is due to radio waves and having exposure to this new technology. They worry whether this exposure can lead to cancer and other serious health problems.
Trials of 5G were completed in Nigeria back in November 2019. It was tested for three months and since then, all of the installations that happened were decommissioned. Already, 5G has launched in many locations around the world, including the United States, United Kingdom, China, South Korea, Spain and Italy. In total, there are currently 34 countries around the world that have 5G, including around 378 cities.
It is important to note that the World Health Organization states that there are no adverse health effects to worry about. Studies have been carried out and they point out there are no obvious causal links between exposure to 5G and health problems. This can offer people peace of mind. They are urging users to think about all of the electromagnetic radiation they are exposed to every day without realizing it. For example, from smartphones, televisions and radios. It can even come from the sun. Therefore, without any concrete studies and research, it cannot be concluded that 5G will be harmful to Nigeria.
