NAIJAFEED

Thursday, June 27, 2024

Starlink Mini Dish Revolutionizing Internet Connectivity in Nigeria

SpaceX is on the verge of launching the highly anticipated Starlink Mini dish. This revolutionary device promises to transform internet availability, particularly in underserved areas. It is set to provide satellite-based internet connectivity to people in remote locations where physical connections are impossible and mobile connections offer limited bandwidth.

The Starlink Mini is a game changer. With dimensions measuring 11.4 inches by 9.8 inches, it is significantly more compact and portable than the current 23.4-inch by 15.07-inch Starlink dish. The device is designed to fit comfortably in a backpack, providing users with unprecedented flexibility and convenience. This portability makes it an ideal companion for remote workers, travelers, and those living in isolated areas.

The integrated Wi-Fi router in the Starlink Mini supports Wi-Fi 6 (802.11b/g/n/ax) and operates over the 2.4 and 5 GHz bands. It features 3×3 MIMO built-in antennas, enhancing the connectivity experience. The device has only two connectors: a DC barrel for the external power source and an RJ45 network connector, allowing users to connect up to 128 devices. Weighing only 2.4 pounds (or 3.4 pounds with the kickstand and DC cable), the Starlink Mini is lightweight and easy to set up.

Since TD Africa, the leading distributor of tech products in Africa and the major distributor of Starlink products in Nigeria, introduced Starlink into the Nigerian market, the company has captured the public’s interest with its ubiquitous satellite service. In fact, the latest Internet Service Provider (ISP) data released by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) showed that Elon Musk’s internet company, Starlink, has emerged as Nigeria’s third-largest ISP by subscriber number in the fourth quarter (Q4) of 2023.

For Nigerians eagerly awaiting the arrival of the Starlink Mini, the wait is almost over. Immediately after Starlink launches the Mini, Konga, Nigeria’s leading e-commerce group and Starlink’s exclusive shop-in-shop retailer, will ensure it is available nationwide. The device will be offered on konga.com at the best prices. This partnership underscores Konga’s commitment to providing cutting-edge technology solutions at affordable prices.

Rest assured, the Mini delivers impressive performance. Based on a speed test screenshot shared by SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, the Starlink Mini offers a robust 100 Mbps download speed and a respectable 11.5 Mbps upload speed with a latency of 23 ms. These capabilities are more than enough to power multiple 4K video streams, video calls, seamless voice chats, and speedy file downloads. Users can expect a seamless and high-quality internet experience, regardless of location.

For users needing to extend coverage to a broader area, the Starlink Mini is compatible with Starlink mesh, allowing it to pair wirelessly with another Starlink router. There is also an Ethernet port for those who prefer a direct connection. This versatility ensures that the Starlink Mini can adapt to various user needs and environments.

One of the most attractive aspects of the Starlink Mini is its affordability. The device is likely to be sold at half the price of the standard dish, making it accessible to a broader audience. This pricing strategy is expected to significantly boost adoption rates, particularly in Nigeria, where cost has been a barrier to accessing high-speed internet.

The launch of the Starlink Mini signifies a significant step forward in democratizing internet access. Whether you reside in a remote location, crave internet on the go, or simply yearn for a more affordable and reliable internet solution, the Starlink Mini is here to bridge the gap. With TD Africa and Konga at the helm, a brighter and more connected future awaits Nigerians.

By Ugo Onwuaso, Nigerian CommunicationWeek

Nigeria becomes first country in Africa to have Starlink

Wednesday, June 26, 2024

Dangote Refinery in Nigeria says it is operating normally after fire

Nigeria's Dangote Refinery is operating normally after a fire at its effluent treatment plant, it said on Wednesday, after videos circulated online of dark plumes of smoke at the 650,000 barrel-per-day facility.

The refinery is located in Lekki, roughly 80 kilometres east of Nigeria's commercial capital Lagos.

Dangote's spokesperson Anthony Chiejina did not provide a reason for the fire at the refinery, which was built at a cost of $20 billion by Africa's richest man Aliko Dangote.

"We have swiftly contained a minor fire incident at our effluent treatment plant (ETP)," Chiejina said.
"There is no cause for alarm as the refinery is operating and there is no recorded injury or body harm to all our staff on duty."

The refinery started production in January and will be the largest in Africa and Europe when it reaches full capacity. It could upend what has been a highly lucrative Europe-to-Africa fuel trade and transform Nigeria into an exporter of fuels.

Dangote has said gasoline deliveries from the refinery were delayed until July.

By Isaac Anyaogu, Reuters

Video - Cost of making jollof rice in Nigeria surges

Jollof rice, one of Nigeria's most beloved meals, is becoming a rarity in many households as the prices of ingredients have risen by more than 150 percent over the past year.

Video - Ghana-Nigeria rivalry transcends from cuisine to the pitch

Former Super Eagle star Odemwingie becomes certified Professional golf player

After a blistering career in football, which saw him playing at the very highest level at the World Cup for Nigeria and at the Premier League as a club player, former Nigerian international Osaze Odemwingie has achieved a new milestone by becoming a Professional Golfers’ Association, PGA- certified golfer.

This feat marks a significant transition for the former football star, who has now joined the ranks of those who successfully made the switch from the football pitch to the golf course.

Speaking during his graduation, Odemwingie expressed delight at moving from a team sport like football into an individual sport like golf, and he also spoke highly of the life lessons he has learnt on the way to becoming PGA certified.

In a video which has since gone viral on X, Odemwingie said: “I am really proud of myself and my friends that are graduating as well.

It’s a long journey, I fell in love with the game, I played a lot of pro-ams as an amateur . I am coming from a football background where I had a decent level of achievement in a group sport now it’s a different sport sometimes you can be lonely in golf, just you and your caddie if you have one.”

While golf could be a lonely sport, the camaraderie spirit at PGA is really cherished by Odemwingie

“… but the PGA itself feels like a family, and seeing what the PGA professionals enjoy the moment the opportunity came my game became as good as an average pro.

“I passed the playing ability test and I was accepted into the programme and I was as excited as I am today (graduating). It is motivating in itself being around people who want to achieve new things .”

Odemwingie said he considers it a worthwhile experience going through the PGA as the lessons learnt will make him a better man and also pass on to his children.
A stellar football career

Aside from his laudable feats playing in Russia and France, Odemwingie had an illustrious football career, playing for top-tier clubs like West Bromwich Albion, Stoke City, and Cardiff City in the English Premier League, where he netted 30 goals.

He also represented the Nigerian national team, the Super Eagles, at major tournaments, including the Africa Cup of Nations, World Cup and even at the Olympic Games, where he proudly won a medal for Nigeria.

For the national team, Odemwingie earned 63 caps and scored 11 goals. His impressive skills on the field earned him a reputation as a pacey and skillful winger.
Inspirational transition

Odemwingie’s journey to becoming a PGA-certified golfer is an inspiration to many. He discovered his passion for golf during his football days and has since dedicated himself to mastering the sport.

His hard work and dedication have paid off, as he has now joined the ranks of professional golfers.
Not alone

Odemwingie is not the only skillful athlete to have made the transition from football to golf. Other notable examples include Chelsea legend Andriy Shevchenko, who has been an avid golfer and has participated in several professional golf tournaments.

Gianluca Zambrotta, the ex-Italian footballer and World Cup winner, has also pursued a career in golf, competing in various tournaments and events.

Lately, Gareth Bale has also been making waves on the golf course after announcing his retirement from football after an illustrious career with the Welsh national team and majorly with Real Madrid.

By Tunde Eludini, Premium Times

Nigeria to ban single-use plastics in federal MDAs

The Federal Government has banned single-use plastics across all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, MDAs.

The Minister of State for Environment, Iziaq Salako, made this disclosure while briefing State House correspondents on Tuesday at the end of the Federal Executive Council, FEC, meeting presided over by President Bola Tinubu at the Council Chamber, Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The minister stressed that the ban aligns with the government’s broader plastic waste management strategy.

“This initiative demonstrates our commitment to addressing the triple threat of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution,” he added.

The minister highlighted the severity of plastic pollution in Nigeria, describing it as “a major issue in our country”.

By Matthew Atungwu, Daily Post