DECEMBER 18, 2008 -- Ericsson (search for Ericsson) has signed a contract with Nigerian telecom company 21st Century Technologies to supply, build, and systems integrate a nationwide residential fiber-optic broadband network. The contract includes the latest GPON technology and will enable advanced high-speed broadband services.
According to Ericsson, the project represents a major breakthrough in the West African region, a market largely dominated by mobile communications. The FTTH network will provide high-quality broadband connectivity and support services such as IPTV, high-speed Internet access, and voice-over-IP (VoIP). Deployment to the first 10,000 homes will start in January, 2009.
"We are delighted to work with Ericsson to deploy and integrate one of the world's most sophisticated network architectures for fiber optics," reports Wale Ajisebutu, managing director of 21st Century Technologies. "With the combination of Ericsson's GPON and IMS technology, we can deliver an enriched multimedia experience to our customers."
"This contract reflects Ericsson's strong position in Nigeria, builds on our partnership with 21st Century Technologies, and highlights our capabilities in multimedia services," adds Jan Embro, head of sub-Saharan Africa at Ericsson. "It is the first project of its kind in the West African region and will be the forerunner of related services not only in the region, but in Africa as a whole."
Per the agreement, Ericsson will provide an end-to-end Deep-Fiber Access network with EDA 1500 for GPON access and fiber cables, including Ribbonet and Micronet air-blown fiber systems. The contract also includes Redback SmartEdge 1200 routers and Ericsson's IMS offering for the core network, enabling seamless access to a range of multimedia services. Ericsson will also be responsible for network design, deployment, and systems integration services.
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