Niger: Adoption of the 2025 National Frequency Allocation Plan (PNAF) – Major Spectrum and Regulatory Overhaul

On May 11, 2026, Niger’s Regulatory Authority for Electronic Communications and Post (ARCEP) officially adopted the 2025 edition of the National Frequency Allocation Plan (PNAF), introducing a comprehensive overhaul of the country’s spectrum management and regulatory framework. This new plan replaces the previous 2017 edition and incorporates the latest international developments, including the outcomes of the 2023 World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-23).

The PNAF 2025 establishes a detailed allocation of all frequency bands from 8.3 kHz to 3000 GHz, harmonizing Niger’s spectrum use with international and African standards. It introduces new frequency bands for International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT), such as 3300-3400 MHz, 3600-3800 MHz, 4800-4990 MHz, and 6425-7125 MHz, supporting the deployment of 5G and the expansion of broadband connectivity. The plan also updates conditions for high-altitude platform stations (HIBS), earth stations in motion (ESIM), and strengthens requirements for equipment approval, efficient use, and spectrum monitoring.

A robust legal and procedural framework is set out, detailing transparent processes for frequency assignment, authorization, and compliance, as well as clear obligations for users and operators. The PNAF mandates the development of a transition plan for services affected by allocation changes, with implementation timelines ranging from one to five years depending on the service.

The plan also reinforces equipment homologation, post-market controls, and introduces stricter administrative and penal sanctions for non-compliance. Cross-border coordination agreements and Niger-specific footnotes are included to ensure the protection of critical services and equitable access to spectrum resources. ARCEP is tasked with ongoing supervision, enforcement, and periodic updates to the plan.

This regulatory update has significant implications for mobile operators, broadcasters, equipment manufacturers, satellite service providers, and public safety agencies, requiring adaptation to new technical and administrative requirements. The PNAF 2025 positions Niger for advanced digital infrastructure development, enhanced connectivity, and technological innovation.

This regulatory update is classified as High Impact due to its comprehensive and mandatory changes to Niger’s spectrum management, frequency allocations, and regulatory procedures.

Key reasons for High Impact:

• Mandatory adoption of a new national frequency allocation plan affecting all spectrum users.
• Introduction of new IMT (5G) bands and reallocation of existing bands, impacting mobile operators, broadcasters, and equipment manufacturers.
• New requirements for equipment homologation, spectrum use, and compliance monitoring.
• Stricter administrative and penal sanctions for non-compliance.
• Mandatory transition plans for affected services, with deadlines of 1 to 5 years.

Who is affected?

• Mobile network operators and ISPs
• Broadcasting companies
• Equipment manufacturers and importers
• Satellite service providers
• Public safety and emergency communication agencies
• Industrial and IoT spectrum users

Conclusion:

All stakeholders involved in the use, supply, or regulation of radiofrequency devices and services in Niger must review and adapt to the new PNAF 2025 requirements. Immediate compliance actions are required for licensing, equipment approval, and spectrum use, with significant operational and investment implications.