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Igbo New Yam Festival: A dimension of the Biblical first fruit offering feast

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By: Okonkwo Chinedu, Ekenyere Gladys & Maduabuchi John-Moses U.

July is an important month for many Igbo people, particularly in South East Nigeria, not because it is the 7th month on the Gregorian calendar, but because it marks the beginning of the Igbo New Year in several communities.

The Igbo New Year precedes the beginning of the Jewish New Year; the difference being probably as a result of differences in location, climatic conditions and the impact of prehistoric migrations of our people. Among the Igbo people of Eastern Nigeria, several communities start the celebration of the New Year with the declaration of the New Yam festivals in July each year.

Ikem, the headquarters of Isi-Uzo Local Government Area, of Enugu State also culturally referred to as “Ikem Asokwa” is an egalitarian town ancestrally related to other communities across Igboland that bear similar cultures and traditional practices, particularly in Abia, Anambra and Ebonyi States. Although there is still a debate as to whether the homeland of all Ikem people is in Abia, Anambra or Enugu State, it is interesting to report that there exists a large autonomous community in Abia State called Ikem-Nvosi, in Isiala Ngwa South LGA which is ancestrally related to Ikem Asokwa of Isi-Uzo LGA in Enugu State. These two communities re-established cultural relations several decades ago.

Orurezhi is the traditional New Yam Festival of Ikem people. History and folklore have it that in the very olden days, the chief celebrants of this great feast are the Community Leaders who hold the title of “Edeji”. The Edeji title holders could be literally seen as the “Lords of the Yam.” They were great farmers who cultivated very large quantities of yam and customarily fed multitudes with pounded yam during each Orurezhi Feast. Apart from feeding multitudes which earned them the name Edejis, they also harvested a lot of yam and celebrated the Igbo New Year by cutting and placing large tubers and pieces of yam at different locations in the Community, along their way from the farms to the Market square.

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The innovation to celebrate Orurezhi (New Yam Festival) in Ikem Asokwa in an improved way (as the Biblical First Fruit Offering) began 10 years ago. This decision followed widespread consultations with the Igwe-in-Council, then led by Late Igwe Francis O. O. Okwor (Enyioha II) of Ikem. The Community Leaders including the red cap Chiefs, the President General of the Town and the Christian leaders from Ikem Asokwa (collectively referred to as Ikem Ministers’ Forum) all agreed with the view that the the New Yam Festival is the Biblical First Fruit Offering related to the Feast of Harvests/Weeks commanded by God Almighty to be observed by Jews in the Bible.
Majority of the people of Ikem, Isi-Uzo Local Government believe like many other Igbo people that their ancestry is Jewish/Hebraic. It was agreed then that the modern way to celebrate the New Yam Festival in Ikem Asokwa should start with public offering of First Fruits and Thanksgiving Prayers to God Almighty in the market square by the people of Ikem Asokwa.

This is a very important act of cultural and religious service done on Saturday, Orie Orurezhi before Sunday, Afor when Christians will as well offer sacrifices of “New Yams” harvested from their farms in various Churches across the Town.
The following Monday, Nkwo is celebrated as the traditional wrestling day.

This is intended to foster unity and development, and to showcase Ikem Asokwa as a formidable Tourism destination in Enugu State, Nigeria. On the very first day of this renewed Orurezhi New Yam Festival, many visitors and tourists throng our town, Medical Missionaries visit and provide free medical services for Ikem people and guests to mark the Festival.

This year’s (2024) event, the 9th in the series; was marked on the July 6th with pomp and pageantry. The participants were excited and hopeful that the 2025 celebration will be more grandiose.

During an interview preceding the festival on 5th July anchored by Mr. Obiora Aneke (a.k.a. Okoro Wawa of Solid FM Radio & Wawa TV), the Chairman of the Isi-Uzo Local Government Traditional Rulers’ Council, HRH. Igwe Engr. Okey Ogbodo (JP), the Igwe of Ikem Uno autonomous community explained what Orurezhi means to the people of Ikem;  thus; “Ezhi” means body, while “Ọrụrọ” means fattening or nourishing. It can also be interpreted as transforming or rather cleansing of the body, which also leads to the clearing of the roads and the environments. It is as well the season of plenty after the period of scarcity usually experienced during the planting season. However, once the New Yam is harvested, it marks the end of scarcity for the Community. All the members of the community thus feast together and rejoice in appreciation to the God of the land who has blessed them with good harvests and wealth. The young men are particularly a special class of celebrants during the Orurezhi Festival, as they would compete in wrestling competition on the third day of the feast. In Ikem Asokwa, no responsible young man shows off strength by bearing arms, fighting, killing or harming his neighbor, People show off their strength and superiority through wrestling bouts. This could happen occasionally at any time but whenever Orurezhi is being celebrated it becomes a compulsory activity to mark the end of the festivity.

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This year’s First Fruit thanksgiving offering service and prayers which held on 6th July, 2024, Saturday, Orie market day was presided over by H.R.H. Igwe Felix U. Ogbuke, Ohamadike 1 of Ikem (the traditional ruler of Ikem Etiti, who is also the eldest of Igwes in Ikem Asokwa. His message to the entire Ikem indigenes was concise and direct. And that is urging the people to join hands with the Igwes and their cabinets to ensure that Orurezhi is well celebrated in Ikem Asokwa stressing that there is nothing unchristian about the festival. He appreciated the Organizing Committee for the success of this year’s event and the NGOs that participate annually in providing free medical treatments for Ikem people and their visitors. He appealed to all Ikem people at home and in Diaspora to always support the Town in celebrating the New Yam Festival.

Hon. Chief Engineer. Paul Ugwuagbo, Oforbuike 1 of Ikem Asokwa in his own account explained that before the coming of Europeans to Igboland, farming was the preoccupation of our people and that the celebration of the New Yam festival then was referred to as Ufejioku. However, in the recent past, Ikem generally christened it Orurezhi and chose Saturday Orie every July, for the festival and remodeled it to showcase the biblical values of the feast. He further explained that Orurezhi is a very important and the most outstanding cultural feast that binds all people indigeneous to Ikem together. He equally observed that the yams harvested in July each year belong to a particular species known as “Usekpe Ovune” which Ikem people cultivate in November and December of each year.

In his vote of thanks, the Chairman of the Orurezhi Organizing Committee, Chief Emeka Nnamani (Omemma 1 of Ikem), thanked God and the Medical teams that treat Ikem people free every Orurezhi day. He also reported that the team included General Practitioners, Public Health Physicians, Dental Surgeons and Eye Doctors, Nurses, Dieticians among other volunteers. He stressed that the good people of Ikem remained grateful to the Christian Medical and Dental Association (CMDA) and Models for Christ – Africa (MfCAfrica) Teams for their continued support to our people in the area of healthcare. This year, the MfCAfrica Medical Team was led by Dr. Ifeyinwa Ugwunweze, Consultant Public Health Physician, who in her remarks stated that the outreach was well organized and very successful. She noted that the aim of reaching out to the underserved population heath-wise was achieved. One other volunteer, a Christian Missionary Dental Surgeon, Dr. Daniel Obiora Chukwudimma, on behalf of CMDA summed his experience thus: “I have to really say that Ikem people are lovely to be with, as it was nice meeting them (on Orurezhi day). I must thank the organizers for a well-executed medical outreach.” The Eye Doctor (Optometrist), Dr. Nwakanma also commended Ikem people and observed that there is high rate of cataract, glaucoma and pterygium in the community .

Evang. Emmanuel Ndubusi Agbo, President of Ikem Christian Believers’ Fellowship (ICBF), and a member of the team of the ministers who officiated during the festival stated, “It is very clear that God almighty instituted the festival of first fruit harvest offering and embedded many blessings in it. [Exodus 23:16]. Everyone, especially the Christian Brethren in Ikem are sincerely encouraged to holistically be in the forefront of this our godly tradition. There is no doubt that next year’s Orurezhi will be more grandiosely glorious”.

On the eve of the 2024 Orurezhi Ceremony, the Chairman of the Isi-Uzo Traditional Rulers Council, HRH Igwe Engr. Okey Ogbodo had thanked the Executive Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, for all he has done for Ikem and Isi-Uzo people and made a passionate appeal to the State Government to beef up security during and after the festival. This was in view of the horrible fatal attacks and killing of innocent citizens in Ikem by suspected killer herdsmen in the past few months.

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HRM. Eze Dr. Solomon Nwakwue; Chimereze 1 & Akajiala of Ikem Osokwa-Nvosi, of Isiala Ngwa South LGA in Abia State has been an important stakeholder of Ikem New Yam Festival. This year, as always, he sent a delegation led by two members of his cabinet, Chief Ohazurume 1 of Ikem Asokwa/Osokwa and Mr. Mgbechinyere Sunday, Chairman Village Heads, Ikem Osokwa with Kola Nuts, Alligator Pepper, large quantities of wine and fruits for the First Fruit Offering.

The Ikem Community Health System (Ikem CHS), led by Dr. Maduabuchi John-Moses is a Community-based Organisation that has has been instrumental to the hosting of Medical Outreaches during the festival in Ikem for about two decades now. Ikem CHS was also the first health organization to run a Community-based Social Health Insurance Scheme in collaboration with Healthcare International, a Health Maintenance Organisation.

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Opinion

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

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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.

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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.

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“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.

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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.

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“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 .

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“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.

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Opinion

Satellite to mobile services and connectivity disruption

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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.

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> 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.

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> 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.

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> 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.

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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.

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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.

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“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.

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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.

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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.

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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.”

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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.

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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.

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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).

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Opinion

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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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