Opinion

Parliamentary System: To Be Or Not To Be

Published

9 months ago

March 13, 2024

By Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, SAN

Nigeria gained independence from Britain in 1960, after several years of colonial rule. Expectedly, Nigeria adopted the parliamentary system of government being the one prevailing in Britain and many other commonwealth countries.

The parliamentary system of government is one in which the party or a coalition of parties with the greatest representation in the parliament forms the government, its leader becoming the Prime Minister.

In this regime, executive powers are exercised by members of the parliament appointed by the prime minister to the cabinet. The party or parties in the minority serve in the opposition to the majority and have the duty to challenge the programmes and policies of the government regularly.

This system of government is mostly regulated by conventions rather than statutes. The prime minister may be removed from power whenever he loses the confidence of a majority of the ruling party or of the parliament.

One of the major features of the parliamentary system is individual and collective responsibility, which ensures the accountability of the government to the legislature and thus, the populace.

The collective responsibility of ministers to the parliament takes different forms. First and foremost, it signifies that the government remains in office only so long as it retains the confidence of the parliament and that all ministers stand or fall together with that government.

Ministers must support government policies, but they must also resign or seek the dissolution of the government if defeated in the parliament on a matter of confidence (for instance, a vote on the budget). Collective responsibility implies that ministers are bound by the decisions of the cabinet, even when they had no part in their discussion or decision.

Second, all members of the government speak in concert in the parliament, unless the prime minister relieves them of that duty. This can happen when the government has no stated policy on an issue and allows a free vote to take place in the parliament or when the prime minister allows a member of his or her government to differ publicly from a policy.

The principle of ministerial responsibility ensures that the government acts as one entity and that this entity is answerable and accountable to the parliament. This was well captured in section 83 of the 1960 Constitution which states that “the cabinet shall be collectively responsible for any advice given to the Governor-General by or under the general authority of any minister of the government of the Federation in the execution of his office.”

During the first republic, a parliamentary system of government was in operation under the 1960 and 1963 Constitutions. This lasted till January 1966 following the military intervention in the government of Nigeria. A constituent assembly was put together towards the exit of military rule in 1978, leading to the draft 1979 Constitution which established the presidential system of government for the second republic.

It was the first time Nigeria was experimenting with the presidential system of government comprising the executive and the legislature as separate and autonomous bodies. Although the President wields the same powers as the prime minister in the parliamentary system, he has no control over and he is not part of parliament.

In the presidential system, the country was divided into constituencies and senatorial districts, which produced the parliamentarians whilst the President was elected by the people through direct ballot. And this has been one of the major reasons against the presidential system as it is said to be over bloated and too expensive to sustain.

Presently, and even with the separation from the executive, parliamentarians in Nigeria have no mind of their own other than to do the bidding of the executive. Requests from the executive to the parliament are not properly scrutinized before blanket approval is granted, candidates nominated for confirmation of the parliament scale through parliamentary screening as a matter of course and the legislature is more of an extension of the executive.

What would then happen were the prime minister to be a member of parliament in Nigeria together with his cabinet members? It will only be a matter of garbage in garbage out and the people will be the worse for it. In the other jurisdictions where parliamentary democracy is practiced, the prime minister labours to convince parliamentarians on certain policy issues and it does not take time for a vote of no confidence to be passed in deserving cases. That can never happen in Nigeria, where the parliament is busy padding the budget to take care of the pecuniary interests of its members. In fact, the parliament would most likely not sit on most occasions, preferring rather to announce wild approvals for executive policies without debate.

Ideally, the parliament should be a check on the executive, performing oversight functions over government ministries, departments and agencies. The parliament should ensure the implementation of the appropriation law to ensure compliance and to avoid corruption and waste. Where the parliament is up and doing in the discharge of its constitutional duties, the executive is tamed and assisted to perform maximally, under the doctrine of checks and balances.

In the case where the parliament is truly independent and autonomous, dictatorial policies and actions are curtailed, corruption is easily exposed and tackled and the people will feel the positive impact of the government. I honestly do not think that Nigeria has advanced to such a state where the leader of the ruling party (prime minister) is made to sit together in the same chamber with parliamentarians and his ministers.

The influence will be overbearing and overwhelming to the great disadvantage of the people. If part of the agitation for a return to the parliamentary system of government is to save cost, we then need to choose between money and progress. We have had enough of the presidential system to gather the experience needed to stabilize that option, whereas we have only had one parliamentary experience.

We can build on these experiences to define our own brand of democracy than to go back to the parliamentary system. In any case, we will still have the same Independent National Electoral Commission, we will still have the same Election Tribunals and indeed the same Nigeria Police Force.

The challenge to me is to build on our institutions to insulate them from political interference and to have them manned by persons who are strong enough to stave off such unwarranted incursions. The other point is that the parliamentary system of government is more like a unitary affair which cannot suit the case of Nigeria with all its multi ethnic and multi religious entities. Let us retain the presidential and improve on it.

ADIEU, HERBERT

I met this young man through his father, Pastor Shyngle Wigwe, at the headquarters of the Redeemed Christian Church of God in Ebute-Metta, Lagos. He was very committed in his devotion and stood out amongst the rest, given his imposing stature. Later on when I had occasion to sit with him and his wife as a panelist during a couples’ seminar, I got to know him as the father of Herbert.

Many years thereafter, I got a phone call from one of my mentors in the legal profession to quickly join him in Ikoyi. I raced down there. It turned out to be a legal assignment involving Herbert. When I eventually met him, he was very cool, calm and relaxed.

It turned out that he was then the one preaching to me on the need for patience and cooperation with the system. While waiting for the interview, I had cause to engage him on many issues, from politics to the economy, to his faith in God and even legal matters. Herbert was very knowledgeable, courageous and daring indeed. But he was also very gentle, firm and humble.

After explaining the legal issues involved in the matter at hand to him, he then dropped a bombshell when he stated emphatically that he was going to enroll to study law. I asked him how? With all his crowded schedules and the busy routine of steering the ship of the big Access Bank. He would read every sent to him and respond when necessary.

Always ready to assist, Herbert would link you up with anyone so long as it would add value to you. When I got to know that he had actually enrolled for the law course, I sent him a message asking why he would not seek permission from senior lawyers before crossing from banking to law.

Later on, it was time for us to travel together. Herbert greeted the pilot familiarly and warmly, joking with the hostesses as we climbed the plane to take our seats. He was very disciplined with his diet, taking tiny little bits of specially prepared nutritious diet but skillfully passing the mendemendes (we call them junks) to me. What is my own! I guzzled everything and washed them down.

After our engagement, he then took me to his house, asking me to sit in the inner chamber. I just stood on my feet, wondering how he expected me to sit in his private chamber as a first-time visitor to his house. When he got back from where he had gone to instruct his aides to prepare food for me and noticed that I was still standing up, he queried me thus: are you not my lawyer, who is supposed to know all my secrets?

He just left me there dazed and went about his meetings. I then looked at myself, this village boy, in this mansion with one of the biggest bankers in town! I collapsed my little frame on the sofa and began to devour the rich diet placed before me. I even slept off when the air conditioner had done its work on me.

Back in Lagos, he took me straight to his office and asked me to sit down and feel at home. How? In this big palace? Herbert was very jovial, down to earth and unassuming. He touched everyone that crossed his path. No doubt Nigeria has lost a gem but I still believe that the owners of the Chopper can be brought to book. Rest in power, man of God and man of the people.

Opinion

“Lessons from Lesotho: The Nexus Between High Literacy Rates, Contentment in Life and Lesser Involvement in Crimes”

Published

1 day ago

November 25, 2024

Naijablitznews

By Dr. Tonye Clinton Jaja,
Executive Director, Nigerian Law Society (NLS)

This is my fifth week here in Lesotho. What I have noticed is that the average Mosotho (a citizen of Lesotho) is contented with their ability to obtain the basic necessities of life (food, clothing and shelter). For them, ability to obtain their staple food (papaa-made of corn meal), and grilled meat (with or without a bottle of “motoho”- local drink made of sorghum) is sufficient.

There is no made insistence on designer clothes, clothes is clothes to the average Mosotho.

I have racked my brain to pinpoint where exactly they have gotten this attitude from.

My research points me to the direction of the high literacy rate of the average citizen of Lesotho.

According to an online report” Lesotho has one of the highest literacy rates in Africa, with 82.01% of the population aged 15 and older able to read and write with comprehension in 2022…Lesotho’s literacy rate has increased since 2014, but it declined from 2000 to 2009.
Lesotho’s education system faces some challenges, including:
Language
The language spoken at home and the language of instruction can affect a child’s ability to read and do math. For example, children who speak English at home and have an English-speaking teacher are more likely to have foundational reading and numeracy skills than children who speak Sesotho at home and have a Sesotho-speaking teacher.

Adult literacy rate is the percentage of people ages 15 and above who can both read and write with understanding a short simple statement about their everyday life. Lesotho literacy rate for 2022 was 82.01%, a 5.37% increase from 2014.”

In Nigeria on the other hand, “Of course, Nigeria’s literacy landscape is nothing to write home about, compared to some African countries. That is why this piece largely focuses on the poor reading culture among the educated population. Alarmingly, recent figures from the National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal Education reveal that 38% of Nigerians lack formal education, while a staggering 40% of primary school pupils struggle with reading and comprehension.

Also, a survey conducted by the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) in 2021 indicated that only 56% of Nigerian adults read at least one book per year. According to a report by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) in 2020, Nigeria had an adult literacy rate of approximately 62%, with reading frequency being much lower. The same report highlighted that an average Nigerian reads less than one book a year, which starkly contrasts with other African nations like South Africa and Kenya, where the reading rate is significantly higher.”

Opinion

PDP NAT’L CHAIRMANSHIP & THE DELUGE OF ENGR UTAAN’S ENDORSEMENTS

Published

2 weeks ago

November 13, 2024

Naijablitznews

By Sunday Bamidele

The race for who emerges as the next National Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is gradually reaching a crescendo as the party is getting ready for its National Executive Committee (NEC) this month. Since the substantive PDP National Chairman, Senator Iyorchia Ayu was suspended by his ward officials and the court subsequently upheld his removal, the Deputy Chairman North of the party, Umar Damagum has been acting in that capacity.

The North Central region of the country, particularly Benue State has made a strong and convincing case that the seat of National Chairman of the PDP should be retained in the area where Dr. Ayu hails from. This argument is backed by relevant sections of the PDP constitution.
The position of the Benue State chapter of the party is incontestable! Ayu’s term has to be completed by someone from his place.

In Benue State, a competent, proactive and dynamic young leader has emerged as the popular choice and has made a bold and irresistible bid for the job. He is Engineer Conrad Terhide Utaan, a seasoned professional Engineer, administrator and politician with a bent of integrity and excellence.

Utaan, 47, is not only competent but has youth and energy as attributes to help the PDP connect with the country’s largest voting demographic—those aged 18 to 50, who make up over 72% of the electorate.

Utaan recently held favourable consultations with the PDP Zonal Executive Committee of the North Central who appeared to have positioned him as the right candidate for the party’s national chairmanship. And what is more? – zoning and micro-zoning principles within the party also favour Utaan, thereby making him the right candidate for the role, as Benue State’s North West District deserves representation.

Utaan’s candidacy has garnered significant support, with many party faithful hoping and believing that he has what it takes to bring unity and progress to the PDP, close its ranks and return the party to the pathway of election victories.

The last few months have witnessed a flood of endorsements of Engr Utaan by different blocs in the PDP across the land. The wide acceptance of the former State Focal Person of Social Investments Programme (SIP) in Benue State began with chairmen of the PDP in the 23 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Benue State who unanimously endorsed Utaan as the sole nominee to replace Dr Ayu as the National Chairman of the party.
During a press conference held in Makurdi, the PDP LGA chairmen declared their collective decision to support Utaan, emphasizing that their choice reflects their commitment to ensuring that the laws of the party are upheld above individual and group interests.

“It is our considered opinion that in continuation of, and fulfillment of the decision for equity, fairness and justice, a candidate from Zone ‘B’ of Benue State be the one to replace Dr. Iyorchia Ayu as National Chairman.

“And having considered the fact that there is only one aspirant from the Benue Zone ‘B’ Senatorial District in the race to replace Dr. Ayu, we take the stand that the candidate be accorded the privilege of being the SOLE NOMINEE of the PDP from Benue State to replace Dr. Iyorchia Ayu as National Chairman.

“Therefore, in fulfillment of our civic duty as Chairmen of the PDP in the 23 Local Government Areas of Benue State, we individually and collectively openly and publicly today, Wednesday, 9th October, 2024, endorse that sole candidate from Benue Zone ‘B’ in the person of Engr. Conrad Terhide Utaan as the SOLE NOMINEE of the PDP in Benue State to replace Dr. Iyorchia Ayu as National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

“We have taken this decision today to add force to the agitations from Benue State and from the North-Central Region for the replacement of Dr. Ayu as National Chairman”, the PDP party chairmen declared.

Similarly, the elected officials of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the Benue North-West (Zone ‘B’) Senatorial District, rising from their Zonal Meeting held on 21st October, 2024 at the PDP State Secretariat located along Abdullahi Shelleng Road, High Level, Makurdi, issued a communique which read in parts thus:

“As provided in Section 47(6) of the PDP Constitution 2017 (as amended) the replacement for Dr. Iyorchia Ayu should be made from the North-Central Geo-political Region of Nigeria, in general, and Benue State, in particular, to maintain our great party’s commitment to equity, justice, and fairness as the core principles upon which the party is founded.

“Since equity, fairness and justice cannot be fulfilled halfway, even in Benue State, the replacement of Dr. Ayu should come from the Senatorial District he hails from, which is the Benue North-West (Zone ‘B’).

“This decision of ours taken today is communicated to the State Working Committee (SWC) of the party in Benue State for necessary action and upward transmission to the appropriate organs of the party at the appropriate levels.

“It is our conviction that the National Executive Committee (NEC) of our great party, the PDP, in upholding the principles of equity, fairness and justice, will decide in favour of Benue State and the SOLE NOMINEE from the state, Engr. Conrad Terhide Utaan, to replace Dr. Iyorchia Ayu as National Chairman of the PDP”, the party officials submitted.

Another solid endorsement of Engr Utaan’s candidacy came from the Benue PDP Youth Forum (BPDPYF). The group stated unequivocally that:

“Our party needs a de-tribalized, tireless, vibrant, young, energetic, hardworking and committed member of the party from the North Central geopolitical zone of the country to pilot the affairs of the party so as to unite men and women , young and the elderly to set aside their differences, diverse interests and come together to reclaim the lost glory of our party.

“After a thorough search and retrospect, we have found a grassroot mobilizer , a man of the people, a charismatic Leader, Hon. Engr. Utaan Terhide Conrad with the desired qualities and we make bold at this juncture to endorse his candidature for the exalted position of the National Chairman of our party, the PDP .

“The decision is predicated on the fact that Engineer Utaan is well schooled, he is an all rounder, he is both the man of the youth and the elderly. He has what it takes to bring together all aggrieved members of the party to resolve all differences on a round table. He represents a true Nigerian without tribal and religious sentiments, he is humble and easy going and above all, he is loved by all”, the group concluded.

Engr Utaan’s candidacy has received a favourable appeal across the country. Only last week, a group of like-minded people wrote from Jos, Plateau State through their coordinator, Andrew Longyem, endorsing Utaan as the next PDP National Chairman. The group raised a number of strong points on why the PDP needs Utaan as the next Chairman.

Engineer Terhide Utaan is a beacon of hope and progressive change, which accounts for why he is garnering widespread support from various groups across different states. His aspiration to become the next National Chairman of the PDP is not merely a personal ambition; it is a reflection of the collective desire for a leader who embodies integrity, innovation, and inclusivity.

Conrad Utaan’s extensive background in engineering and management equips him with a unique skill set that is essential for effective political leadership. His professional journey is marked by significant achievements in both the public and private sectors, showcasing his ability to implement complex projects and navigate challenging environments. This experience translates into a profound understanding of party administration, general governance, resource management, and strategic planning—skills that are vital for steering the PDP in a direction that aligns with the aspirations of its members and the Nigerian populace.

The momentum behind Utaan’s candidacy is underscored by the endorsements he has received from various PDP groups across the country. These endorsements are not mere formalities; they signify a deep-rooted confidence in his capability to lead the party effectively. Grassroots support is crucial in politics, and Utaan’s ability to connect with party members at all levels indicates his commitment to inclusive governance. He understands the challenges faced by different demographics within the party and is poised to address their concerns through comprehensive policies that resonate with the electorate.

The Vision

I have perused Utaan’s vision for the PDP and found it quite fascinating. His blueprint for the party revolves around unity, reform, and revitalization. He recognizes the need for the party to adapt to the evolving political landscape and to re-establish its position as a formidable force in Nigerian politics. His strategy includes fostering collaboration among party members, promoting transparency, and creating a more democratic process within the party’s decision-making structures. By prioritizing these values, Utaan aims to restore public trust and encourage broader participation in the political process.

Embracing Elders’ Wisdom

Engr Utaan’s recognizes the need for a leadership approach that not only revitalizes the party but also honours its foundational values, particularly respect for elders and inclusion of party stakeholders.

One of the cornerstones of Utaan’s leadership philosophy is his profound respect for elders. He understands that the experience and insights of senior party members are invaluable.
If given the opportunity to serve, Utaan will actively seek the counsel of party elders on critical issues, thereby fostering a culture of collaboration. Utaan will not only honour their legacy but also enhance the party’s credibility and unity.

Youth Empowerment

One of Utaan’s standout qualities is his uncommon commitment to empowering the youth and women within the party and the broader society. He understands that the future of Nigeria lies in the hands of its young people, and he is dedicated to providing them with the opportunities and platforms they need to thrive. Utaan’s policies will prioritize education, entrepreneurship, and mentorship programs, ensuring that the next generation of leaders is well-equipped to tackle the challenges ahead. Additionally, his focus on women’s empowerment aligns with the PDP’s goals of promoting gender equality and inclusivity within the political arena.

A Champion of Unity

As Utaan embarks on this journey to become the National Chairman of the PDP, he has been calling for unity among party members. He believes that the strength of the PDP lies in its diversity and the collective efforts of its members. His leadership will focus on bridging gaps, resolving internal conflicts, and fostering a sense of belonging among all stakeholders. This approach is essential for building a resilient party capable of facing the challenges posed by the current political climate in Nigeria.

Utaan understands that the strength of the PDP lies in its diversity of voices. His administration will prioritize stakeholder engagement, ensuring that every member—be it at the state, local government, or ward level—feels represented and heard. He plans to implement regular town hall meetings and feedback sessions, creating a transparent dialogue between the leadership and party members.

By utilizing digital platforms and social media, Utaan will expand outreach, allowing for broader participation in discussions about the party’s direction. This inclusive approach will empower stakeholders to contribute ideas and solutions, fostering a sense of ownership and commitment to the party’s goals.

Utaan is committed to healing any divisions within the party. He believes that a united front is essential for electoral success and effective governance. To this end, he will initiate reconciliation programmes that bring together various factions within the PDP. By promoting a culture of forgiveness and collaboration, Utaan aims to build a cohesive team that works towards common objectives.

Engineer Conrad Terhide Utaan stands out as the best candidate for the role of National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party. His impressive background, broad-based support, and clear vision for the future position him as the leader the party needs during this pivotal time. By choosing Utaan, the PDP can embark on a transformative journey towards unity, progress, and renewed relevance in Nigerian politics. His candidacy is not just about a leadership position; it is about a commitment to the ideals of democracy, development, and dignity for all Nigerians.

● Bamidele writes from Ibadan, Oyo State.

Opinion

Satellite to mobile services and connectivity disruption

Published

2 weeks ago

November 13, 2024

Kayode Sanni-Arewa

Sonny Aragba-Akpore

Elon Musk’s ambition to conquer technology and everyday living got a boost early in January 2024 when his SpaceX which owns Starlink satellite communications announced that it was introducing satellite to mobile communications services across the world.

> Its plan primarily was to provide ubiquitous services around the globe and give a run for money to other mobile network operators and telecommunications companies (telcos).

With its communication satellites,Starlink introduced disruptive technologies and with satellite to mobile,the company creates further disruption in telecommunications ecosystem.

> Musk’s foray into Nigeria fetched him six licences with a full bouquet capable of operating in many spheres and first received two licences, out of the six in May 2022 .

These were for International Gateway and the Internet service provider (ISP) licences, and began to trade as Starlink Internet Services Nigeria Ltd.

> According to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the International Gateway licence has a 10-year tenure, while the ISP licence runs for five years. Both licenses took effect from May 2022 and may be renewed after the expiration.

Starlink came with disruptive technologies that are already making a world of difference for consumers and we looked on as if nothing was happening. The company came prepared.

> With a total of six licenses from the NCC and various permits and approvals to flag off the business of internet services via satellite and equally signing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and distribution agreements with Nigerian companies including, Technology Distribution Africa (TD),a big distributor of major technology brands and promoted by a restless technology czar ,Leo Stan Ekeh, Starlink showed it meant business.

The company didn’t stop there ,it decided to take services to even the unserved and under served communities in Nigeria and parts of Africa .

With its technology it said it will deploy nearly $30b over time for the Nigerian operations alone.

> The government is excited that with the entry of Starlink,it may achieve 70% broadband connectivity by 2025 as enshrined in the National Broadband Plan (NBP) 2020–2025.

> Starlink,s six licenses include that for ISP, Gateway Service Provider,international Data Access (IDA),Sales and Installation Major,Gateway Earth Station and Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) thus making it a mega player and a big threat to other players in the industry.

Starlink officially announced its presence in Nigeria in January 2023. The company, which initially quoted its prices in dollars at $600 for the hardware and $43 for the subscription, changed to naira upon its official announcement.

> “Starlink satellites provide Direct to Cell capabilities and ubiquitous access to texting, calling, and browsing wherever subscribers may be on land, lakes, or coastal waters,” it said.

“Direct to Cell works with existing long term evolution ( LTE) or fourth generation (4G ) phones wherever you can see the sky. No changes to hardware, firmware, or special apps are required, providing seamless access to text, voice, and data,” the company added.

In January 2024,Elon Musk’s SpaceX launched its first set of Starlink satellites to provide cell phone service anywhere in the world.

The company announced a milestone the billionaire warned can’t compete with terrestrial networks but will help plug cellular dead zones and boost global mobile connectivity.

> Six of the 21 Starlink satellites launched in January 2024 are capable of connecting directly to cell phones, SpaceX said.

“They are the firm’s first ever direct-to-cell satellites and are designed to function as “a cellphone tower in space,” according to Starlink’s website.

SpaceX said the satellites were first used to test its Direct to Cell service in the United States, where the company has partnered with T-Mobile.

Once activated, the service began to connect with ordinary, unmodified phones without the need for extra equipment so long as they are 4G LTE-compatible, a standard T-Mobile covered the “vast majority of smartphones” already on its network back in 2022.

Starlink said it plans to roll out a text messaging service using the technology later this year and broader voice, data and IoT—the network of connected devices called the internet of things—services in 2025.

Musk celebrated the successful launch and said the satellites “will allow for mobile phone connectivity anywhere on Earth.” However, he noted there are limitations to the technology.

“While this is a great solution for locations with no cellular connectivity, it is not meaningfully competitive with existing terrestrial cellular networks,” Musk said, pointing to the relatively limited bandwidth that is spread over a large area.

Starlink also notes the satellites will let users connect “wherever you can see the sky.”
It has entered a working arrangement with Africa Mobile Networks (AMN) ,a mobile network operator that has deployed services in Nigeria and other countries in Sub-Saharan Africa.

AMN has been deploying rural base stations in Nigeria since 2018.

In 2023, AMN signed a deal with SpaceX to use Starlink’s satellite backhaul connectivity for its remote base stations in Africa.

AMN has connected over 100 rural base stations in Nigeria to Starlink’s Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite network. This has resulted in a 45% increase in traffic across these sites.

As at April 2024, AMN owned and operated more than 1,600 base stations nationwide. They increased that number to 2,000 by the end of June.

AMN’s ARN technology allows base stations to support up to five simultaneous carriers.

The combination of AMN’s ARN technology and Starlink backhaul has increased the capacity of Base Transceiver Stations (BTS) without requiring changes to the BTS software.

AMN is privately owned by 18 shareholders, including founders, angel investors, a VC fund, and one strategic investor.

Starlink’s constellation is now providing satellite backhaul to over 100 of Africa Mobile Networks’ rural base stations in Nigeria.

AMN also expects to double the number of base stations plugged into Starlink’s constellation in the country by the end of the year. The operator says on average traffic has increased by 45% across all sites that have been migrated to use Low Earth Orbit (LEO) backhaul.

AMN and Starlink signed a commercial agreement to use the satellites to connect the operator’s mobile network base stations with broadband services in 2023, and in April this year the first base station to do so went live in Yebu, Nigeria.

Since then more than 100 terminals to other rural villages across the country have been hooked up, and AMN says that this means it is ‘able to unlock the full capability of the AMN Radio Node (ARN) to support the ever-increasing amounts of bandwidth and data volumes demanded by subscribers.’

The ARN is a multi-carrier and multi-technology (2G/3G/4G) radio node which can operate up to 5 simultaneous carriers in either 2G+ 3G or 2G+4G configuration, we’re told, and by using LEO backhaul in conjunction with it, AMN says it has been able to increase the BTS capacity remotely with no change to the existing BTS hardware on site.

“These numbers are particularly impressive given that prior to the installation of AMN’s base station, communities did not have access to any mobile network,” explains the release.

“The mobile connectivity AMN provides changes lives. Farmers can find information about market prices, a healthcare provider can consult with doctors in a larger town, money can be sent safely and securely into the village, and businesses can expand beyond their own community.”

Starlink aims to provide satellite internet connectivity to underserved and remote areas worldwide, where internet access has traditionally been limited or non-existent. The global network of Starlink satellites in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) is already providing a new ‘Direct to Cell‘ service to deliver a 4G mobile service to standard Smartphones.

Once the Direct To Cell service is fully up and running, the number of satellites will have increased significantly, and more powerful SpaceX V2 satellites will have been deployed. In essence, users can always access satellite internet service directly from anywhere on earth (if you’re on land, at least – for internet on the ocean, Starlink says it’s offering a dedicated separate maritime service).

The full ‘Direct to Cell’ satellite phone service is set for launch soon and should be compatible with 4G handsets by 2025.

Direct to Cell works with existing LTE phones as well as IoT devices using common LTE standards. Apps and changes to phone hardware or firmware aren’t necessary to access 4G mobile text, voice, and data.

In 2024, only texting will be supported, and a year later voice and data services, as well as IoT functionality, will be added.

The technology aims to extend mobile coverage to areas where traditional cell towers are not present or are ineffective. Unlike traditional mobile networks that rely on a network of cell towers, Direct to Cell connects mobile phones directly to Starlink’s satellites in orbit.

This eliminates the need for ground infrastructure like cell towers in remote areas. It can significantly expand the coverage area of mobile networks, providing connectivity in places that were previously unreachable by standard cellular services. Mobile operators can partner with Starlink to extend coverage without having to build new infrastructure.

Starlink’s satellite network covers the entire globe, which means this technology has the potential to provide universal mobile connectivity, even in the most isolated regions. Starlink satellites with Direct to Cell capability have an advanced eNodeB modem onboard. This acts like a cell phone tower in space, allowing network integration comparable to what a standard roaming partner might provide.

Compared to previous satellite telephone networks, Starlink offers two big advantages: the satellites operate closer to Earth (around 550 km as opposed to as much as 1,400 km) and SpaceX can launch larger satellites. This makes it easier for phones to connect.

However, the precise extent of the service offering and coverage in each region depends on variable such as local regulations, carrier partnerships, and ground stations. SpaceX is looking for cell phone companies to work with on selling the services and is currently already working with T-Mobile (USA), Rogers (Canada), KDDI (Japan), Optus (Australia), One NZ (New Zealand), and Salt (Switzerland).