General News
Gilat Satcom Believes in Connectivity for Everybody- Alex

Alex Petropouliadis is vice president, Sales Africa, Gilat Satcom, the communication solutions provider that offers satellite and fiber-based connectivity solutions in Africa, Asia and the Middle East.
Petropouliadis joined Gilat Satcom in 2007 as a regional sales director and was appointed VP Sales Africa in 2012.
Prior to joining Gilat Satcom, Petropouliadis worked for Xerox and was part of the management team and has also worked for Creo as a sales director responsible for SADC sales.
Petropouliadis on a recent working visit to Nigeria spoke to peter ugwu on a wide range of issues.
Gilat Satcom’s Mission in Nigeria
Our main target is to become the biggest Internet Service Provider (ISP) Company in the country. I will say Gilat today has become a pan-African company.
What we do as a new strategy is to acquire businesses all over Africa. We are combining them under one brand, which is Gilat.
The idea started about a year ago and became a strategy for the company; since then we have been able to acquire three operations in Zambia, Nigeria and DRC.
Gilat’s core business has always been satellite and we have decided that the core focal area and the strategy should change hence we engage in buying home-grown and developing businesses in Africa.
We have invested about $20 million in West-Indian Ocean Cable Consortium (WIOCC); the biggest investor in the EASSY cable in East Africa.
With this investment, we became a shareholder in WIOCC. Apart from that we also purchased capacity through this organization on the WIOCC cable.
The route is actually a big ring starting from London, going around the continent (Africa). The good news is that we have a full redundancy ring with fibre capacity in Africa.
So, basically we engage in the technologies-satellite, which has always been our world business and we are continuing with it and engage in fiber connectivity.
African Focus
We decided to have local presence in Africa, starting with acquiring local presence. In addition to what we already have, we are finalizing the acquisitions of businesses in Niger and Burkina Faso; by end of 2013, we would have five full operational bases in Africa.
Our people oriented strategies will continue in 2014 with the aim to have seven additional ISPs in Africa.
Of course, we are not going to reach every country in Africa; it all depends on the business case of the country we have mapped out to reach out to, just like some countries in Central Africa.
Nigeria is one of our major targeted markets; here we have commenced 100% operation; today we emphasis on aspects of communication in Nigeria, especially in Abuja, Lagos and Port Harcourt.
We are planning to have redundant ring connecting the three cities; you can imagine a triangle moving from Lagos to Abuja, there to Port Harcourt and back to Lagos.
The impact would be that when have a cut, we can reroute the traffic back to the customers. By this we are achieving full redundancy.
Secondly, we are part of WACS, we see our customers’ needs and the primary need is redundancy.
So, we are solving the challenges local in the country through the range-rings, but still not limited to one infrastructure so that when one network is down we should not be down as well.
We are actually taking capacity from other vendors like MainOne Cables, Glo 1, integrating them into one system; when a provider goes down, the other one comes up immediately.
The Last-Mile Infrastructure
Basically, we are a carrier of carriers. We sell capacities not directly to the home users.
However, we are introducing a latest technology into the market to mitigate some customers’ related challenges.
We supply capacity to other ISPs, cellular operators, among others. Unless a government office, we would not sell directly to the customer.
I understand there are challenges in the country today, eventually, as more competitors enter the market, more fibers laid, they will be solved.
Many countries in Europe, United States, and other developed countries started exactly the same way Nigeria and other African countries are going today.
The last mile is the problem, but the stakeholders-individuals, corporations and the nation at large will overcome that.
If you are to reach everywhere and reduce the price, then solving the challenge of last-mile is paramount in the process.
Taking the capacity from the shore is very cheap, but extending it to Port Harcourt is very high.
This is the biggest challenge that could be solved with more players coming in; Gilat is not the playing this game per say, we are not laying fiber rather we are adopting other infrastructure.
Gilat’s New Product
We have developed a new product and we are introducing them into the African market.
It is something that will basically give people internet connectivity in a very small modem (box) in a size of 20 meters.
There will be an accompanying dish of about 90 meters (the same used for the DSTV). The modem is able to reach high speed internet uplink through a cellular using the cellular modem (uplink) and downlink via satellite.
Idea behind the Innovation
Today, the market is used to the cellular data spurred by the evolution in mobile devices.
The user experience about how the devices are connected for surfing the internet actually depends on the download, not the upload. For instance, when you want to get CNN online via Google, to cull up the page you are actually uploading a request to the web.
The internet sees it and downloads the site for your usage. The big content and the user experience depend on the downlink.
When you download you have the picture, texts, video, they are actually big contents; so the bigger the bandwidth is the better the user experience.
It makes people happy; saves time, energy, resources and enhances productivity. What we did is to leverage on the issue cellular companies have ingested on their towers and links.
We expect the product to get to every home. Another feature embedded in the product is WiFi, which allows people to share data or connectivity.
The price will be based on consumption level as well. We are segmenting it, because we are not targeting just home users alone; we are creating opportunities for the small and medium enterprises to benefit from it. Gilat will always be on the forefront of innovation in this regard.
Solutions for Banking and Financial Institutions
We have several banks working with us on deploying primary links for redundancy actualization. We are very well known in the industry.
Essentially, we have an iDirect hub in Lagos where any bank can connect for a capacity it can use for any application.
In the mean time, a number of banks are accepting the offer. The hub serves both for regular and private networks. We have invested about $1 million dollars in this hub just to set it up in the neighbourhood.
Crash of Broadband Internet Price in 2014
It is absolutely possible. However, it depends on the market segment the analysts are talking about. If you are talking about the home user, the answer is definitely yes.
For example, the new product we are introducing to the market has reduced price compared to what is already in the market.
For corporate, depending again on where they are located. Like I said earlier, pricing depends, largely, on the last-mile; that is taking the capacity from Lagos to Abuja, Port Harcourt, Kano and other cities.
As more players enter the market the prices will go down and then the corporate entities will enjoy lower pricing.
The issue will be the time those players will recoup their investment; because if companies after laying fibers and deploying other infrastructure, they could not recoup their investment they will become distressed.
The cost of laying the fibers cost money. Based on the fact that investors are coming into the Nigerian market means it will not be long even the corporate bodies will enjoy bandwidth at reduced prices.
Today, we have Glo1, MainOne Cable, SAT-1, WACS and a new one coming up; the user experience and cost will always get better.
We are talking about terabytes of capacities. It is similar with other markets; when you are growing the prices are usually high, nevertheless more investments brings price down. So, as soon as companies make gains from their investment, new players entering the market, then monopoly has since been eliminated, it will cruise.
Africa and Broadband Ubiquity
I believe, it will not be long, Africa will witness broadband ubiquity. We are all striving towards this initiative.
It is an initiative that Gilat Satcom delights in. We believe that each country and each person should be connected to the world.
There are many challenges in Africa and outside Africa. In each continent there are challenges; Africa has the challenge of the last-mile, US had it, Europe experienced it.
So there may be additional challenge in each country. I truly believe that five years from now, in Africa, there will be full connectivity given the enormous investments going on. If you remember in some African countries, with exception of Nigeria, five years ago, they had not internet and ill-afford it.
They were only the government and big companies that were connected; people had no access to 3G or cellular connectivity, but look at what we have today. And in five years we can compete with other developed countries of the world.
Assessment of Government Policies
I am very satisfied with what the government is doing. I had met with several government officials in Nigeria, discussing on the way forward and I could see the passion and willingness to develop the system, give the people the connectivity they want.
Today, everybody has one smart device or the other looking for connectivity and government is interested on that.
Competition among ISPs
My company’s competition is not with the local ISPs. They are my customers; the people that
I will supply my capacities to.They are the ones to distribute my hybrid product. Although, may be some cases customers may approach Gialt directly, we will define what they want and decide to sell directly to them.
But that will be a fraction of business we are doing now. We are carrier of carriers. We are not deploying directly to homes.
If someone wants a gig of bandwidth I will not sell to him, he has to approach the ISPs. There is an aspect that can raise some concerns because the companies we are carrying also deploy the solutions and that is the beauty of competition. But we are not afraid. As many competitors are there, the better for the market. Our uniqueness will give us an edge in the market.
General News
Lagos Lawmakers Commend LIRS on Historic N1 Trillion Revenue Milestone

Legislators in Lagos State have commended the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) for achieving an unprecedented milestone in revenue generation, surpassing ₦1 trillion.
This landmark accomplishment positions LIRS as the first sub-national revenue agency in Nigeria to attain such a feat, reflecting its professionalism, efficiency, and commitment to transparent tax administration.
Former Chairman of the House Committee on Economic Planning and Budgeting, Hon. Lukman Sa’ad Olumoh, alongside Hon. Femi Saheed, former Chairman of the House Committee on Finance, lauded LIRS and its Executive Chairman, Mr. Ayodele Subair, for their exemplary leadership and dedication to enhancing the state’s revenue performance.
In a recent interview, Hon. Lukman Sa’ad Olumoh described the achievement as a testament to the dedication and expertise of the LIRS team. He emphasized that Lagos State has set a benchmark in revenue collection, serving as a model for other states to emulate. Representing the Ajeromi-Ifelodun Constituency 01 in the Lagos State House of Assembly, he praised Mr. Subair for fostering a culture of efficiency and innovation within the agency, which has significantly contributed to its success.
Speaking during the 2024 budget signing ceremony, Hon. Lukman Sa’ad Olumoh conveyed to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu that Lagos State has reached an exceptional level in revenue generation.
He acknowledged LIRS’s historic achievement of surpassing the N1 trillion mark and expressed confidence in the agency’s ability to exceed future targets.
He further urged the state government to sustain its support for LIRS, emphasizing that continued improvements in revenue collection could reduce reliance on external borrowing.
“You cannot expect remarkable results without placing the right people in key positions. LIRS is managed by a team of highly skilled professionals. While it operates as a government agency, its structure and operations reflect global best practices.
“The agency has evolved into a world-class institution, moving from Good Shepherd’s House to the state-of-the-art Revenue House. A visit to its facilities will reveal an environment that fosters excellence.
“Under the leadership of Mr. Ayodele Subair, a visionary and dedicated professional, LIRS has achieved remarkable success. The agency’s work culture and improved operational environment have been instrumental in reaching this milestone,” Hon. Lukman Sa’ad Olumoh stated.
Looking ahead, Hon. Lukman Sa’ad Olumoh noted that based on LIRS’s consistent performance, the revenue target for 2025 has been set at N1.4 trillion.
He assured that as Lagos’s economy continues to expand and more employment opportunities are created, this growth in revenue collection would not impose additional burdens on residents but rather result from enhanced tax compliance and structured reforms.
“LIRS has demonstrated steady growth over the past five years. We have set a revenue target of N1.4 trillion for 2025, and I am confident that the agency can surpass this goal. Lagos State has the capacity to generate over N4 trillion in internal revenue without negatively impacting its residents,” he added.
He also highlighted the role of upcoming tax reforms at the federal level, noting that the Joint Tax Board (JTB) would ensure a well-structured tax administration system.
He reassured the public that no adverse fiscal policies would be introduced, emphasizing that the focus remains on improving compliance and fostering a positive tax culture.
In a formal congratulatory letter addressed to Mr. Subair, Hon. Femi Saheed, who represents Kosofe II Constituency, commended the LIRS team for their dedication, resilience, and strategic approach to revenue collection.
He reiterated the Lagos State House of Assembly’s commitment to providing the necessary legislative support to enable the agency to achieve even greater success.
“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to you and your forward-thinking management team for surpassing the N1 trillion revenue mark in 2024.
“My colleagues and I commend your resilience, transparency, and commitment to excellence. Your achievements bring immense pride to Lagos State, and I am confident that 2025 will be even more rewarding.
“As a key revenue agency, we remain dedicated to supporting your efforts in achieving greater milestones,” the letter stated.
With this historic achievement, LIRS continues to reinforce its position as a leader in revenue generation, setting new standards for tax administration in Nigeria.
General News
TD Africa Unveils Super App Version 2, Transforms Technology Access Across Africa

TD Africa, a leading technology distributor in Africa, has launched TD Super App Version 2, an upgraded, feature-rich platform designed to revolutionize technology procurement for individuals and businesses.

Omowumi Oladele, Project Manager, TD Africa
The enhanced App offers seamless access to a wide range of cutting-edge tech products at unbeatable prices, with faster delivery options to improve efficiency and convenience.
Available on both web and mobile, the revamped TD Super App boasts an intuitive, user-friendly interface, making it easier than ever for users to discover and purchase technology products.
This latest upgrade reaffirms TD Africa’s commitment to affordability, efficiency, and convenience, ensuring that businesses and individuals can access the tools they need to succeed.
With exclusive deals and discounts, registered users can enjoy significant savings on a vast selection of technology products, including computing devices, smartphones, consumer electronics, and power solutions. Optimized logistics and accelerated delivery times further enhance the shopping experience, ensuring that customers receive their technology essentials quickly and reliably.
“At TD Africa, we are dedicated to delivering value, efficiency, and cutting-edge technology solutions that drive business growth and streamline operations,” said Omowumi Oladele, Product Manager, TD Africa.
“The upgraded TD Super App Version 2 is designed to simplify procurement, enhance productivity, and maximize savings—empowering businesses and individuals across Africa.”
The App is now available for download on the App Store (iOS) and Google Play Store (Android). Users can also access the platform via web browsers at superapp.tdafrica.com
General News
FG Drops Merger of NCAA, NAMA

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo has disclosed that President Bola Tinubu has stepped down the merger of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) as recommended by the Steve Oronsaye report.
He also revealed that the aviation industry was exempted from the foreign travel ban placed on federal government officials last year. The President announced the ban which took effect from April last year.
Keyamo disclosed that the aviation sector was exempted from the ban because President Tinubu is desirous of change and growth in the sector.
The ban was placed following the rising cost of travel expenses by Ministries, Department and Agencies of Government.
The memo released last year stated: “Considering the current economic challenges and the need for responsible fiscal management, I am writing to communicate Mr Presideni’s directive to place a temporary ban on all publicly funded international trips for all federal government officials at all levels, for an initial period of three months from 1st April 2024.
“All government officials who intend to go on any publicly funded international trips must seek and obtain Presidential approval at least two weeks before embarking on any such trip, which must be deemed necessary”.
The Minister disclosed the reasons for the exemption in Abuja at the 25th anniversary celebration of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
On the merger of NCAA and NAMA, he said: “From modest beginnings, we have witnessed remarkable transformations in our sector, ranging from enhanced supervisory measures and policies formulation, safety and security oversight, robust legislative and regulatory frameworks, advancements in air traffic management, development, expansion and certification of airports, accurate meteorological services, timely accident investigations, manpower development, and indeed, the growth of indigenous airlines.
“These achievements have not come without challenges. However, with the efforts of past administrations and the total support of the present administration under the dynamic leadership of His Excellency President Bola Tinubu through the Renewed Hope Agenda and the five focus areas of the ministry, we have overcome challenges and reached new heights.
“NCAA is a child of God, and despite turbulent waters and attempts sometimes to kill the NCAA, the NCA has survived 25 years. And I’m sure you know that any child that is born at the age of 25, of course, is undoubtedly an age of maturity.
“The Oronsanye reports also recommended the merger of NCAA and NAMA. And so that was also another attempt to kill the NCAA. That report was passed from Jonathan’s government to Buhari’s government, and then to the present government.
“It was one of the first items we considered in this government. So the Oronsanye reports came up that day, and the president went on and on, considered every item in the Oronsanye report, and asked the council to vote. And for each item, they would listen to the ministers and so the president came to the merger of NCAA and NAMA as one body.
“I raised my hand, I spoke for about five minutes and because we have a wonderful president who listens to good counsel and good arguments, after I finished speaking, he said, an item dropped, the merger of NCAA and NAMA would not remain”.
On the reasons for the exemption, he said: “It is a fact that the aviation sector remains a pillar of national development, facilitating trade, tourism, investment, and cultural exchange. Whilst it is yet to realize its true potential in terms of contribution to our nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), we must renew our commitment to ensuring a more progressive, sustainable, inclusive, innovative, and prosperous aviation industry.
“This necessitates the continuous adoption and integration of emerging technologies, enhancing infrastructure, and investing in human capital development to keep our skies safer and secure and attain cohesive and efficient air transportation services.
“The President directed that foreign travels should stop, except in exceptional circumstances. Last year, there was a memo around March that said it was for three months, and the President, because of his desire to ensure that we are frugal in our spending; there was another memo again in December reiterating that memo last year we should cut down on foreign travels, except by direct presidential approval.
“But let us also give particular thanks to Mr. President, because despite that memo, since last year, he has made an exception for the aviation industry. I wrote a memo to him after that directive on behalf of the entire agency that says; Sir, we respect your directive; yes, we need to be frugal because the Nigerian people have also tightened their belts in the face of the economic reforms that are taking place.
“However, because of the safety of this sector, Sir, we need to make some exceptions for this sector. And the President graciously granted this for the aviation sector”.
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