Development of an Original Game-Theoretic Framework for Distributed Spectrum Sharing Among Heterogeneous Wireless Networks in Nigeria

The coexistence of multiple heterogeneous wireless network operators sharing spectral resources creates a competitive interaction environment that is analytically amenable to game-theoretic modeling, enabling derivation of equilibrium spectrum sharing policies that balance competitive operator objectives with collective spectrum efficiency. This doctoral study develops an original game-theoretic framework for distributed spectrum sharing among heterogeneous wireless networks in Nigeria, addressing the specific multi-operator, multi-band spectrum environment defined by the Nigerian Communications Commission's frequency allocation plan. The framework models the spectrum sharing interaction as a non-cooperative game among licensed primary operators and opportunistic secondary users, incorporating spatial conflict graph constraints derived from geographic base station location data. An original potential game formulation is derived that guarantees convergence to a pure strategy Nash equilibrium under distributed best-response dynamics, with a novel interference pricing mechanism that internalizes network externalities and aligns individual operator decisions with socially optimal spectrum utilization. The existence and uniqueness of the Nash equilibrium under Nigerian market conditions defined by the oligopolistic operator structure are analytically characterized. A distributed algorithm achieving convergence to the equilibrium with 95% probability within 40 iteration cycles is demonstrated through simulation using a network topology representing the Lagos metropolitan operator deployment. Comparative analysis demonstrates that the proposed framework increases total spectral efficiency by 52% over static frequency assignment while maintaining interference below NCC-defined protection thresholds for all operators. Keywords: game theory, spectrum sharing, Nash equilibrium, heterogeneous network, NCC Nigeria.