2025 SAG Award Winners

Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC)

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Project Goal

The project aims to apply GIS techniques in managing over 60,000 microwave frequency links across Nigeria, which backhaul up to 14 TBPS of telecommunications data traffic. These links serve as backup mediums to fibre and satellite communication, especially where deploying fibre is impractical. They backhaul 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G data from Base Transceiver Stations (BTSs), Base Station Controllers (BSCs), and Mobile Switching Centres (MSCs).
The primary goals are employing GIS techniques to ensure effective Microwave frequency management through self- coordination amongst network operators in deploying new links, effective resolution of signal interference, and safeguarding revenues by checking under-declaration of the spectrum resources.
Additionally, the project creates thematic maps showing the interconnectivity of microwave links, their capacity, frequency bands, and ownership for easy Management decision making.
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Business Problem Solved

The project addresses several business problems: ensuring interference-free deployment of microwave links, safeguarding revenue by preventing data inaccuracies, and improving spectrum management. By using GIS techniques, the project ensures that service providers can self-coordinate and reduce interference with other operators' networks. Accurate data collection and validation prevent revenue losses due to incorrect or incomplete data, ensuring efficient spectrum management and improved telecommunications services. GIS supports field engineers in quickly resolving interference and helps during first-level interference resolution. When an interference case is reported, the entire map is reviewed to identify all operators with links along the path using the same frequency channel, considering spatial diversity.

Technology Implemented

• ArcGIS Pro: For mapping microwave frequency links and conducting validation to eliminate erroneous data from being captured in the system. The Validation Attribute Rule has been very useful in cleaning data.
• ArcGIS Online (AOL): serves as a gateway for collaboration using published data. Also, minimal configurations and map embellishments are conducted within the AOL.
• Field Maps: Guides engineers during interference monitoring as all the Links are accessed at the comfort of their mobile devices. The GPS capabilities of the app enable field engineers to align their spectrum analyser’s antenna along the line-of sight of the links.
• Survey123 and Survey123 Connect: Configures geo-enabled forms for field verification. This addresses issues of under-declaration of links through implementation of Quality Assurance (QA) measures.
• Dashboards: Provides interactive platforms for data access for easy retrieval for quick decision-making.

Development Team Biography

1) Dr. Amino Maida: Executive Vice Chairman/ Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Communications Commission. He provides the enabling environment for a flourishing data centric decision making.
2) Engr. Abraham Oshadami: Executive Commissioner, Technical Services, Nigerian Communications Commission. He oversees the technical departments within the Commission which includes the Spectrum Administration Department that executed the project.
3)Engr. Atiku Lawal Head of Spectrum Administration Department.
4) Prof. Suleiman Garba: Head of Spectrum Database Unit.
5)Sanusi Bawa: Database Unit team Member
6)Avula Emmanuel Arimor: Principal Manager and GIS Analyst. Project Team Lead. Over 13 years experience in application of GIS in telecom regulatory.
7) Mohammed Kyari: Database Team member
8) Ayodeji Segun-Ijagbemi: Data Analyst.
6) Umar Yusuf: Data Analyst and field validation officer.
7) Oluwafemi Oni: GIS Analyst
8) Oluwatobi Adeniji: GIS Analyst