Opinion

Wanted: A State of Emergency on Cost of Governance

Published

7 months ago

May 4, 2024

By Tunde Olusunle

The lobbies and lounges of the Nicon Hilton Hotel (now Transcorp Hilton) and Sheraton Hotels and Towers, (now Abuja Continental Hotel) were very boisterous in the early days of the Olusegun Obasanjo/Atiku Abubakar administration in 1999. Both hotels were the biggest and best, those years and they accommodated the cream of the political class who gravitated to the federal capital territory, (FCT) at the outset of the Fourth Republic. Conjectures, rumours and spins swirled in the breeze of both hotels throwing up the names of potential ministers, advisers and prospective government functionaries. As the names of potential top-ranking operatives became public, the question arose about the number of aides they would each be entitled to, and where such assistants will be sourced from. The civil service was poised to populate as many positions as may be thrown up in the new dispensation. They fancied themselves a reservoir of trained and ready bureaucrats who could be called upon at the snap of two fingers, the way a military parade is summoned by the sound of the bugle.

First, it was proposed that appointees at the level of minister and adviser were entitled to two aides, a “Special Assistant” at the level of Deputy Director on Grade Level, (GL) 16, and a “Personal Assistant” at the level of a “Chief” in the civil service on GL 14. But for the insistence of senior and influential members of the emerging Obasanjo administration, the civil service would have had its way. For an Obasanjo who is famous for frugality, whatever governance model which would conserve resources for government, suited his desires. The President was, however, reminded that the minimum compensation that could be accorded the foot soldiers who made his ascension possible, was to avail some of them positions in the new government.

Obasanjo was also admonished about the fact that democratic governance as different from an insular military government, should expand the space for qualified and competent Nigerians by way of sustainable engagement. Members of the national assembly agreed mutually that they should each have five legislative aides, who were of necessity drawn majorly from their home constituencies for obvious reasons. With a total of 469 in both chambers of the federal parliament, over 2000 jobs had thus been created. If Obasanjo’s cabinet was to be composed of 42 members and each of them took two people from the unemployment market, such tokenism will at least keep many hands from becoming workshops of devil.

Since Obasanjo was a newcomer to popular politics who was still undergoing demilitarisation from his erstwhile professional fixations, the new President was also reminded he could seek reelection in 2003, as provided for by the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. If he nursed any such ambitions, the real groundsmen at the grassroots in the polling units, the wards, the local government areas, the federal constituencies and so on needed to be practically cultivated. If they were not physical appointees themselves they will be glad enough that they have their eyes and ears where decisions concerning them were being made. Obasanjo consented and to a substantial extent, his prototype was in place until the expiration of his rulership in 2007. In several instances, qualified loyalists of the party were also appointed and deployed to departments and agencies under the supervision of various ministers.

Obasanjo’s equally frugal successor, Umaru Musa Yar’Adua inherited and ran with his benefactor’s template. Yar’Adua by the way, purportedly appealed to Obasanjo as baton-changer among other reasons, because of his predilection for thriftiness. In the course of Obasanjo’s state visit to Katsina State Yar’Adua’s erstwhile address as governor in 2002, the former Nigerian leader was delighted with Yar’Adua’s good works as with the impressive balance sheet of the state. Obasanjo has also noted elsewhere that he was also swayed in the direction of Yar’Adua because of the absolute loyalty with which Umaru Yar’Adua’s elder brother, Shehu, served him when he was military Head of State. He desired to honour the memory of a colleague who died desiring the democratisation of his country and on whose political platform he largely profited en route the presidency. Atiku Abubakar was Yar’Adua’s de facto Number Two man in the Peoples’ Democratic Movement, (PDM). He it was who led that critical political tendency to coalesce with other groups, to become the bedrock of Obasanjo’s success in the 1999 presidential poll and thereafter.

A certain liberalisation of the preexisting archetype of engagement of personal aides by top appointees began to take root during the administration of Goodluck Jonathan. He succeeded Yar’Adua who passed away in May 2010 and was somewhat soft on certain goings-on in the governance apparachik, his gaze trained on a shot at the presidency on his own steam in 2011. Call cards in the public domain during that era reportedly alluded to new coinages in the Jonathan milieu hitherto unheard of. His police aide-de-camp in his years as Vice President, Matthew Jitoboh, for instance gave way to a military officer, Ojogbane Adegbe, following Jonathan’s concurrent designation as President, Commander-in-Chief. Rather than report to the Inspector-General of Police, (IGP) for redeployment to regular police duties Jitoboh transmuted into a “Chief of Personal Security to the President” under Jonathan’s watch! What with the numbers and diversity of security personnel who hitherto secured the seat of government? Every such needless creation, pitched for operational resources thereby diminishing government capacity to provide basic services and infrastructure.

Things went on a perverse descent with the advent of Muhammadu Buhari as President in 2015. Buhari was never famous for hands-on leadership, a fact which soon became very evident as his rulership began. Ministers, advisers and so on were at open-ended liberty to populate their schedules with as many aides as they desired. Some public officers indeed fancied a whole bureaucracy of personal aides which could include a Chief of Staff! There could also be: Special Advisers; Special Assistants; Technical Assistants; Personal Assistants; In-house Consultants; Resource Persons and so on, engaged by top government officials. Buhari, renowned for never being awia of goings-on around and about him, was not in a position to check or moderate such excesses. Sadly but interestingly, government at sub-nationals like the local government level, equally ape existing precedence at the higher rungs. They cram up the space with all manner of frivolous appointments. Local government chairmen also have their chiefs of staff and a retinue of preposterous aides all remunerated from resources transmitted from the centre. It got so bewildering in my local government at some point that the “wives of councillors” were allegedly paid a month’s stipend of N50,000 monthly, for being “first ladies of their wards!”

Government finances are strained by these overloads which come with specific fiscal requirements. Emoluments have to be paid to those purportedly offering services to government; residential quarters or hotel accommodation has to be provided for them; means of travel have to be provided or paid for. Where such officials are allocated official vehicles and there is a shortage of chauffeurs in the pool, new drivers are hired, the costs consolidated on the hunchback of government. The entourage of our modern-day big men on local or foreign travels ballooned with appropriate per diems or estacodes, imperative. Officials themselves concot all manner of trainings, conferences and similar offshore engagements, flying in comfy classes. They savour the best hospitality facilities in their global junketing at our collective expense and the discomfiture of our already be-laboured resources.

Despite this dampening scenario, unfeeling officials prefer foreign destinations for such mundane convergences as interactive workshops and meetings. Early March this year, the Accountant-general of the Federation, (AGF), Oluwatoyin Sakirat Madein herded Commissioners of Finance from the 36 states and FCT to the United Kingdom for an early-in-the-year rendezvous, in the name of a week-long workshop! The theme of that engagement was “Public Financial Management International Public Sector Accounting Standards,” (IPSAS). The AGF who should be better apprised than the rest of us about the country’s most disturbing fiscal situation was the orchestrator of yet another pipe-leak in the name of a foreign engagement for the nation’s exchequers.

Last April, governors of 10 Nigerian states congregated in the United States to discuss security issues ravaging their various states! All governors from the North West: Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, Kano, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano and three states from the North Central, Benue, Niger and Plateau, participated in the three-day parley. If their homes have become metaphorical furnaces in the grips of bandits, kidnappers and similar miscreants, couldn’t they have moved over to another state, say Akwa Ibom which would provide the necessary serenity and security for engagement? The resource persons with whom they engaged in the United States could as well have flown to Nigeria.

Public officials are not sparing a thought for the sustainable rehabilitation, upgrading and operationalisation of our existing touristic capital and other facilities which should easily earn foreign exchange for the country. What happened to the Obudu Cattle Ranch and the Tinapa Resort, both in Cross River State? The state indeed opens the window to a myriad of other pristine treasures including the Slave History and the Old Residency museums; the scenic Tortuga Island, not forgetting the archival home of the famous female Scottish missionary, Mary Slessor. What have we done with the Yankari Game Reserve and the Kainji Wildlife Park in Bauchi and Niger states, which harbour some of the world’s rarest fauna? How about the Lekki Conservation Centre and the Badagry Coconut Beach overlooking the regal Atlantic ocean, both in Lagos State?

Under President Obasanjo, Abuja became the unofficial “conference destination” in Africa. It subtly displaced Cairo, Johannesburg, Nairobi, even Kigali in the contest for this designation. Back in 2003, Nigeria very competently hosted the 18th Meeting of the Heads of Government of the Commonwealth of Nations, (CHOGM), which was attended by the Head of the Commonwealth, Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II at the time. Fifty one out of the 54 Commonwealth member countries attended meeting, a measure of the global regard with which Nigeria was viewed. Today, however, our senior officials are ever pliable in flashing cigarette lighters to our very scarce resources, in their oftentimes frivolous gallivanting. They don’t seem disposed to helping to build our own endowments to the world class standards which will compel the world to come probing.

Last January, Bola Tinubu, Nigeria’s President directed the reduction of the number of officials on his entourage to foreign destinations to 20. This was in response to public outcry about Nigeria’s typically overblown delegations to offshore events. This cutback was also extended to the travels of his deputy. In March, Tinubu issued a presidential order restricting foreign travel by government functionaries for an initial period of three months, starting from April 1, 2024. While these measures are commendable, government needs to take a holistic view of the question of unsustainable public spending particularly in a milieu when government is gasping for fiscal oxygen.

All arms of government are directly or indirectly guilty of various infractions on the national till. Justices of the Supreme Court of Nigeria mid-2022, petitioned the Chief Justice of Nigeria, (CJN), Tanko Muhammad. Led by the incumbent CJN, Olukayode Ariwoola, the judges correspondence stopped short calling out seething malfeasance under Muhammad’s watch. Nigeria’s parliamoent remains the most pampered anywhere in the world, presumably operating a most opaque accountability regimen. Mammoth sums are voted for the procurement of bulletproof, luxury automobiles for leaders and members of Congress. The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio is said to have dozens of aides servicing his office in the name of “inclusiveness.” He never probably met most of them and may never do. We are told inexplicable provisions are made for “constituency projects” which are directly overseen by the legislators themselves. This subhead is said to have become a conduit for the pilferage of public resources.

Wasn’t Abdul Ningi, a ranking congressman representing Bauchi Central recently suspended for playing the whistle-blower on the expenditure proclivities of the same parliament to which he belongs? Undocumented allowances are made for the various breaks and holidays of parliamentarians, the type described as “prayers” by the Senate President the other day. Let’s not forget the jumbo millions in foreign exchange which the federal government annually votes for some agencies of government, a part of which was found cooling off under uninterrupted air-conditioning in a flat in highbrow Ikoyi, in Lagos, a few years ago. In that 2017 incident, $43.4m; £27, 800 and N23.2m, totalling N13 Billion at the time, were discovered in that singular instance!

Pointed and pragmatic pruning down of government expenditure transcends piecemeal orders and instalmental directives. Government should ideally declare a “state of emergency” on public expenditure which should bring all the arms of government at various levels of administration to a roundtable. More than ever, it is necessary for us to lay the issues bare, agree on subsisting profligacy in governance and administration, and deploy the scalpel without sentiments and biases. We must agree we’ve been collectively profligate. We must concur to the fact that there are services and developments we can avail our people without the humongous budget paddings which have become the norm. We must re-commit to serving the mass of our citizens to whom we are primarily obliged. We must re-dedicate to working for this country with every altruism. We must be resolute in exerting ourselves for its sustainable growth, to the standards of other forward-looking nations.

Tunde Olusunle, PhD, is a Fellow of the Association of Nigerian Authors, (FANA)

Opinion

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

Published

1 week 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

1 week 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).

Opinion

SCOTT TOMMEY: TRIBUTE TO AN ACCOMPLISHED ENTREPRENEUR AT 54, BY EMMANUEL AJIBULU*

Published

2 weeks ago

November 12, 2024

Kayode Sanni-Arewa

Out of God’s infinite grace and mercy, November 12 uniquely stands as one special day when Scott Tommey appears to be everyone’s attention. This is one auspicious moment when friends, business associates, employees, family members, will leave no stone unturned to make him feel special, deservedly so.

Born on November 12, 1970, the Chairman of Osmoserve Global, an indigenous company that provides Marine and Engineering services to the Oil and Gas industry, Parastatals, States, and Federal Government, an Africa’s leading business icon and a patriot with integrity that trusts and puts God first in everything he finds himself doing.

Tommey’s deep aversion for injustice, empathy for humanity, magnificent taste for good, a superb dress sense and magnanimity stands him out any day, anytime. He, like a few others has showed that the love of fellow humans is still possible, by practicing ‘live and let’s live’ as a mantra. He is self-confident but not arrogant nor reckless. His deep immersion and abiding love for people is sparkling clear.

I am yet to situate him properly whether he is Marxist, progressive, conservative, leftist, centrist, liberalist or technocrat. He is all rolled into one and much more-a humanist. He has a heavy inclination and burden for humanity. His commitment to advancing the cause of human dignity is a religion to him and as well to good governance, democracy, socio-economic advancement and the welfare of all, (wo)men regardless of religious or political creed is self-evident in all his dealings. He is passionate and compassionate to a fault and as well quite emotional. Perhaps, it is right to say he is a man of immense empathy toward fellow creatures.

Tommey, a true family man, husband of Seiyefa, is from a royal family of Tommy Ikott, Afia Nsit village in Eket Local government of Akwa Ibom State; a seasoned administrator, astute consultant and business strategist has lived a practical life sustained on hard work and the benevolence of God, his knack for helping people is a clear understanding of life as a temporal place of abode and no amount of primitive accumulation can suffice. Because of this simple yet factual understanding of life, his continued successes and fulfillment in life and especially in business and investment have continued to remain shining examples to the youths who see him as their mentor and role model uniquely worthy of emulation.

Tommey is an example in excellent inter-personal skills, emotional intelligence and has not allowed the achievements he has made so far to becloud his humanity. He is ever ready to give a listening ear and ready to help a distressed person find comfort which accounts for the steady stream of visitors to his office and home on a regular basis.

Receiving a deluge of goodwill, celebratory messages, kind words and prayers from all over the world aren’t coming by accident, but simply because he truly deserves them. The man is divinely blessed, especially when one considers that the Bible says in its book of Proverbs that “a good name is to be chosen rather than great riches” but Scott Tommey is one of the few blessed with both great riches and a great name. The handsome, stylish, intelligent, Nigerian philanthropist is practically ubiquitous across the African continent and in elite circles across the world, yet displaying exceptional value of humility.

Many Nigerians are thankful to God that Scott Tommey has not limited his generosity to his immediate family. His life embodies the Francis Bacon quote that says “Charity begins at home but should not end there.” For many years, he has consistently given multiple scholarships to indigent students across the country, also contributing significantly towards the security of lives and property with his generous donations. This well thought out philanthropy is to its recipients, a lifeline and a powerful pull from the rubble that their homes and lives had been reduced to.

Scott Tommey phenomenally stands out as an investor per excellence who impressively remains an embodiment of Nigerian entrepreneurial spirit. His focus, endurance and commitment to a prosperous Nigeria and indeed Africa have marked him out for greater glory. The fact that he treasures the virtue of true friendship and loyalty to any cause he believes in, gives him the cutting edge. I sincerely join his family, friends, protégés and well-wishers in thanking God for his exemplary life. It is my prayer that the Almighty God continues to bless him with robust health, more achievements and enduring happiness without regrets. Congratulations sir.

*Emmanuel Ayodele Ajibulu is a seasoned media practitioner, infopreneur, a writer, PR consultant, and publisher of veracitydesk.com an online magazine.