The National Communications Authority (NCA) has begun processes to remove the exclusive rights granted to Next-Gen Infraco (NGIC) to provide 5G infrastructure in Ghana, citing public interest concerns, slow network rollout, and default in licence fee payments.In a statement issued on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, the regulator said it has served NGIC with a Notice of Proposed Licence Amendment under Section 14 of the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775), signalling a possible end to the company’s monopoly in the 5G space.NGIC was set up as a wholesale infrastructure provider to build and lease 5G networks to mobile operators such as MTN Ghana, Telecel Ghana, and AirtelTigo, who would then deliver retail services to consumers.The exclusive model was meant to prevent duplication of infrastructure and reduce costs. However, critics have argued that it created a bottleneck, slowing Ghana’s entry into the 5G era.“The NCA remains committed to transparent, fair, and predictable regulation to ensure sustainable investment, competition, and growth in Ghana’s communications sector,” the Authority said in a press release.According to the NCA, the proposed amendment is intended to promote competition and innovation, expand consumer choice, accelerate digital transformation, and ensure the efficient use of spectrum as a national resource.Under the law, the notice will take effect within 90 days by June 2026 unless NGIC makes representations that convince the regulator to reconsider.The move follows growing concern over NGIC’s performance since it was awarded the exclusive 5G infrastructure licence.The NCA disclosed that the company has installed only 49 5G sites nationwide, with 43 located in the Greater Accra Region. The remaining six are spread across Ashanti, Western, Northern, Bono, and Central regions.For a country of more than 30 million people across 16 regions, the regulator suggested the rollout falls short of expectations.Compounding the issue, the Authority revealed that NGIC is in default on its licence fee instalments.“The licensee is currently in arrears, and the matter is being addressed in line with the licence conditions and applicable laws,” the statement noted, without disclosing the amount owed.If the amendment takes effect, other infrastructure providers could be allowed into the market, potentially boosting competition and speeding up network deployment.Industry analysts say the decision reflects mounting frustration over Ghana’s lagging 5G progress compared to regional peers.NGIC now has 90 days to respond to the NCA’s notice and make representations in its defence. The regulator says it will consider the company’s response before making a final decision.“The Authority will carefully review any submissions from the licensee in line with due process,” the statement said.