General News
Unlicensed & Licensed Bands for Wireless Networks Expanding SATCOM Role in Booming Market
Andrew Aroh
5G brings three new aspects to the table: greater speed [to move more data]; Lower latency [to be more responsive]; higher capacity (the ability to connect a lot more smart devices and sensor at once).
There will be slow but responsive 5G.
There will be also fast 5G with limited coverage.
Spectrum-wise 5G runs in three kinds of airwaves: Low–Frequency bands networks; Mid–Frequency bands networks; and high–Frequency bands networks.
Low –Frequency bands 5G networks use existing cellular band and Wi-Fi band [5 GHz] by taking advantage of more flexible encoding using OFDM [better spectral efficiency, data reliability and effective range].The resulting bigger channel sizes thus created achieves speeds 25 to 50 percent better than 4G [2Gbps].
This yields about 3.5Gbps which is better than existing 54 Mbps for Wi-Fi.
These networks can cover the same distances using existing cellular networks and generally won’t need additional cell sites/Access points (AP).
Thus, even with existing macro cells 5G will be able to boost capacity by four times better than current systems by leveraging wide bandwidths and advanced antenna technologies [Multi beam with massive MIMO].
The goal is to have far higher speeds available and far higher capacity per sector, at far lower latency than 4G [20-30ms].
The standards bodies involved are aiming at 20Gbps speeds and 1ms Latency, at which point very interesting things begin to happen.
The first applications for 5G includes fixed wireless access for homes and enhanced mobile broadband [eMBB] services using new 5G phones, tablets, wireless access modems and HOTSPOTS.
High –speed wireless links tend to be deployed in conjunction with wireless access technologies, namely:
- LMDS/WLL base/earth stations
- Mobile Voice and Data base/earth stations
- Hotspot [Wi-Fi] base/earth stations
Hotspot access network is one in which wireless access is enabled by 802.11-based Wi-Fi technology.
This allows very high–speed roamable access to: Portable computers, PDAs, video games, services terminals of various types [e.g. IPAD], warehouse/industrial equipment, office computers, hand/personal wireless phones i.e. GMPCS (Global Mobile Personal Communications by Satellite).
Hotspots have been vigorously deployed to primarily serve the travelling business community with the current applications being corporate LAN access.
Hotels, airports, conferences centers, restaurant centers and shopping malls are the current deployment targets intended to serve these markets.
The low cost of the user terminals coupled with the pseudo-mobility of this technology will see it in wide spread HOME INDOOR and OUTDOOR deployments with virtually unlimited applications and services.
This technology has found its way into a merger of sorts with the existing mobile voice networks, providing much sort after integrated mobile voice & data networks with widespread ubiquitous coverage provided via satellite.
Larger Hotspots are constructed using a number of short range Access Points [APs] operating in unlicensed band allocations at 2.4, 5.2 or 5.8 GHz.
Each AP can provide access rates of 11Mbps or 54Mbps using highly standardization 802. 11a/b/g/n using COFDM technology for large and scalable Networks.
The Hotspots within a given metropolitan networks can then be linked using wire line/cable or wireless technologies.
Like other cellular networks, 5G networks use a system of Cell Sites/APs that divide their territory into sectors and send encoded data [using OFDM] through radio waves. Each site must be connected to a network backbone. High speed wireless links operating above 50Mbps can be operated in unlicensed bands or licensed bands depending upon the services and perceived interference immunity of the links, whether through a wired or wireless backhaul connection.
- When considering, wireless inter Hotspot, links, the use of unlicensed technology is attractive since the entire 802.11 user access layer is unlicensed.
- However, once aggregation in the Hotspot has occurred, the interference prone nature of the unlicensed bands makes them unstable choices for backhaul except for bands like 24GHz and 60GHz in which there is a high degree of natural or regulated interference immunity.
- As a result, the aggregation of the data from these access cells tend to be focused on high-speed, highly reliable and predictable links constructed using fiber [If available] or licensed high-speed wireless using satellite technology or microwave links. Frequencies such as 18, 23, 26 and 28 GHz are often candidates for these licensed links. Care must be taken when considering unlicensed operation in the 5.8GHz band since this band is highly prone to interference .The 24 GHZ allocation does allow only highly directive PTP links and 60 GHz offers very highly natural attenuation against undesired interferences. Ultimately, the best reliability and predictability are offered by licensed links.
- 5G over satellite catches on much faster than unexpected:
- Satellite must be inserted into the global virtualized architecture
- Industrial companies have demonstrated the use of satellite communications capabilities integrated and interoperable in the 5G environment, achieve interoperability of networks and demonstrate the functionality, performance and benefits brought by the use of satellite. The first phase leveraged existing space and ground segment assets and new development enables the high efficiency, high performance, virtualization and multi service capability paramount for the main 5G use cases.
- These activities drives the full integration of satellite in 5G through open and standard solutions, facilitated primarily through 3GPP standardization.
SATELLITE PROVIDERS LOOK TO EXPAND ROLE IN BOOMING Wi-Fi MARKET:
- Increasing demand for broadband internet access anytime, anywhere is what is fueling the growth of Wifi services.
- Satellite services providers are moving into the booming market for wireless communications by offering satellite links for Wi-Fi [Short for Wireless Fidelity] hot-spots.
- The market is substantial as Wi-Fi hot-spots continue to pop up in office buildings and other public and private venues around the world. Indeed, both satellite and terrestrial service providers are competing to offer the services.
- Just as satellite backhaul has helped expand the reach of mobile telephone networks, it can also expand Wi-Fi access.
- Rural markets in developed countries, such as France, as well as those in less developed area in Africa, are being brought across the digital divide because of such access.
- A particularly interesting satellite application in the U.S.A is to connect temporary Wi-Fi hot-spots used for sporting events and natural disaster relief.
Broadband wireless software and network providers have found that satellite networking can work better than terrestrial lines to connect wide area Wi-Fi hot-spot networks.
Installing a nationwide-network with terrestrial links [Lines] involves complexities that can include the use of multiple vendors, long lead lines, and multiple points of contact for repairs.
Satellite network uses a single vendor.
- A strategic partner and value added reseller can provide an internet portal for truckers with Wi-Fi hot spots at more than 250 truck shops. It can also offer software solutions and a satellite network capable of transmitting data at up to 48 megabits per second.
- When drivers or any other subscribers are in a hot-spot, they have access to a proprietary network that can transmit application data, access the internet and intranets, as well as send and receive-email.
- To enhance cost-effectiveness of its system, service partners can design their networks around hotspot access locations that will be located strategically across the country.
- Wi-fi hotspots provide an excellent avenue for satellite systems to provide broadband access even with traditional-distribution satellites.
Andrew Aroh is President SSPI Nigeria
Office of the Surveyor General of the Federation (OSGOF) and the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) have pledged to deepen collaboration in key national development areas, including geospatial data infrastructure, satellite technology, communication sector regulation, and population census operations.
This was the outcome of a high-level meeting held on Tuesday at the headquarters of OSGOF in Abuja, where Abudulganiyu Adeyemi Adebomehin, surveyor General of the Federation, received Dr. Matthew Adepoju, director general of NASRDA, and his management team.
This was disclosed in a statement issued on Wednesday by Henry David, head, Information and Public Relations, Office of the Surveyor General of the Federation, titled ‘SGOF Pledges To Support NASRDA For Optimal Performance.’
According to the statement, the discussions at the meeting focused on the impact of upstream and downstream operations in Nigeria’s communication sector, challenges of mast proliferation near residential areas, and the broader implications for public health. Both agencies expressed concern over the unregulated installation of communication infrastructure and its potential link to rising cancer rates.
“The downstream sector of communication companies involves placing signal-receiving stations within living communities, which poses significant health risks due to radiation,” the two agencies said in a joint position. “Co-location of infrastructure, as practised in developed countries like the UK and US, should be adopted here to reduce radiation exposure.”
The two agencies called for stronger regulation of telecommunication operators, noting that television and radio signal disruptions—commonplace in Nigeria—are largely due to a lack of oversight, a situation that does not persist in countries with stringent telecom regulations.
Addressing issues of national data management, the agencies stressed the critical need for collaboration with the National Population Commission (NPC) in the upcoming national census. “Without the input of NASRDA and OSGOF, the census will remain speculative,” they jointly noted.
On geospatial data, both parties resolved to work together to strengthen the National Geospatial Data Infrastructure, which they described as vital for national planning and development.
In his remarks, Surveyor General Adebomehin expressed firm support for NASRDA’s initiatives. “I will defend NASRDA to the best of my ability. If you need software engineers, we have capable hands here,” he said. “Keep encouraging your staff. Behind every successful organisation in the world, you will find Nigerians. We are in full support of your mission.”
Adebomehin urged NASRDA to engage the Presidency directly in acquiring high-precision satellite systems. “You need a satellite that can deliver accuracy of less than 10 centimetres,” he said. “This will reduce the government’s losses from MDAs sourcing satellite services externally.”
Duniya Magaji Joseph, director of Geodesy at OSGOF, called for improved inter-agency collaboration, especially with the military. “Anytime the military collaborates with OSGOF, the outcome is always better,” he said. “We need to overcome the tendency to work in silos driven by funding concerns and instead focus on joint advantages.”
NASRDA’s DG, Dr. Matthew Adepoju, said his agency is working with the Ministry of Steel Development on mineral exploration projects, including the identification of new sites for raw materials such as steel and limestone. He stressed the importance of OSGOF’s technical input in these initiatives.
“We’ve agreed to support the Ministry of Steel Development in identifying new resource locations,” Adepoju said. “But I don’t want NASRDA to go it alone. We want OSGOF fully involved so that roles are clearly defined, and the synergy is more impactful.”
To mark the visit, NASRDA presented symbolic gifts, including a plaque and a vest, to the Surveyor General in appreciation of OSGOF’s commitment to partnership.
The meeting, held in Abuja, concluded with both agencies reaffirming their shared mandate to support national development through technology, data integration, and inter-agency cooperation.
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has warned investors that Crypto Bridge Exchange (CBEX), operating under the corporate identity of ST Technologies International Ltd, also known as Smart Treasure/Super Technology, remains banned in Nigeria, insisting that it has not been registered by the commission.
SEC’s position followed reports that traders on the controversial CBEX platform are now back and able to access their accounts and trade, with renewed assurance after the digital platform abruptly shut down in April, thereby trapping investors’ funds in excess of N1 trillion.
In a public notice issued on Wednesday, SEC advised the public to refrain from patronising or transacting any investment-related business with CBEX.
However, the commission was silent on what steps it would take against the trading platform and its promoters, having earlier declared that CBEX was not registered or authorised by it to embark on offer investment-related services to the Nigerian public.
The notice read: “The attention of the Securities and Exchange Commission has been drawn to media reports indicating that CBEX (Crypto Bridge Exchange), operating under the corporate identity of ST Technologies International Ltd, also known as Smart Treasure/Super Technology, has resumed operations across Nigeria.
“According to the reports, CBEX promoters are demanding $200 from their subscribers with balances above $1,000, and $100 from those with less than $1,000 balances before withdrawals can be processed.”
The commission stated unequivocally that neither CBEX nor ST Technologies International Ltd (or Smart Treasure/Super Technology) is registered with it or authorized to offer investment-related services to the Nigerian public.
“As a matter of fact, enforcement action has already been initiated against CBEX and its promoters following its previous unauthorized investment activities and the commission is collaborating with relevant law enforcement agencies to properly investigate CBEX/ST Technologies International Ltd and will take appropriate actions in line with the provisions of the Investments and Securities Act 2025.
“The Nigerian public is accordingly advised to refrain from patronising or transacting with CBEX /ST Technologies International Ltd (Smart Treasure or Super Technology) as they risk losing their funds,” it said.
It, therefore, advised the public to verify the registration status of investment platforms via the commission’s dedicated portal before transacting, adding that it remains committed to protecting investors and maintaining market integrity.
Union Bank of Nigeria has reiterated its commitment to entrepreneurship and women’s empowerment through its alpher initiative by sponsoring the Nigerian British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC) Women and Youth Entrepreneurship Development Centre (WYEDC) Cohort 2 Programme, which has graduated 125 entrepreneurs who have benefited from firsthand entrepreneurship training and business grants.
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria account for more than 50% of industrial employment and contribute approximately 48% to the country’s GDP.
This makes entrepreneurship one of the economy’s building blocks and is a testament to Union Bank’s unwavering dedication to national development in partnership with NBCC.
In her welcome speech, the Director General of NBCC, Dr. Ebere Njoku, reiterated NBCC’s commitment to supporting entrepreneurship, women’s empowerment, and youth empowerment, citing these as catalysts for economic development and sustainability.
She appreciated the sponsors, partners and facilitators who devoted their resources and time to upskilling the participants.
The entrepreneurship initiative stemmed from the visionary goal of Mr. Ray Atelly, President and Chairman of the Council, NBCC, FRPA, to provide entrepreneurship and grant opportunities to Nigerian women and youths.
Mr. Atelly told the graduates in his speech, “This is your chance, make sure you take it. Don’t let any obstacle stop you because there will be many; if you let it stop you, your dreams are not strong enough. You need to keep pushing, someday you will sit at the top of a conglomerate and people will aspire to be like you.”
Also in attendance was the NBCC’s Patron, Senator Akin Odunsi, FRPA, who congratulated the Cohort 2 graduates.
He said, “I encourage all of you not to take the training you have received for granted. Use it as a landmark opportunity to be a beacon of hope to others who look up to you.”
He also urged the Chamber to provide internship opportunities after the six-month entrepreneurship training in organisations for the incoming Cohort 3 and beyond.
He added that the internship experience will give trainees the unique chance to practice what they learned and, in return, benefit the organisations from their acquired skills.
The goodwill message at the graduation ceremony was delivered on behalf of Mrs. Yetunde Oni, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Union Bank of Nigeria, by Mrs. Vivian Imoh-Ita, the Bank’s Head of Retail and SME Business, who appreciated NBCC for the life-transforming training they are providing to the youth and women entrepreneurs.
She further stated, “As a Bank, we understand that when we invest in women and youth entrepreneurs, we are investing in the most powerful catalysts of economic transformation. Through the Bank’s alpher initiative, we have enabled success for women-led businesses. In a volatile economy like Nigeria, the challenges facing entrepreneurs are dynamic and significant. As a Bank, we intend to prove that these barriers are not unconquerable and are growth opportunities.”
Three entrepreneurs, namely Evelyn Ekene Ani of Evani.Ng (First place), Martha Padonu of Beyond Photography (Second place), and Therietta Vershima of La Teriz (Third place) were declared winners of the Union Bank Business Pitch competition held during the graduation ceremony and were rewarded with funding for their businesses.
The Bank’s sponsorship of the training demonstrates its commitment to fostering a vibrant, innovative, and inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem for women and all individuals.
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