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Since the introduction of GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) in Nigeria, the country’s mobile communication sector has experienced massive growth. This shift from the old state-owned NITEL system has significantly boosted communication and various industries in Nigeria. However, despite all these advances, many Nigerians still struggle with poor mobile service quality. This includes issues like dropped calls, call failures, and weak signal strength.
Professor Abiodun Musa Aibinu, head of Mechatronics Engineering at the Federal University of Technology Minna (FUT Minna), has pointed out these problems. According to him, although mobile network providers have added more Base Transceiver Stations (BTS) to their networks to improve service, it hasn’t been enough to solve the issues. As a result, many users have to carry multiple phones or use devices with multiple SIM cards just to get a good connection.
Introducing the MOES Card
To fix these ongoing issues, Aibinu and his research team have developed a potential solution called the Multiple Operator-Enabled SIM (MOES) Card. This project, started in 2013 and funded by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), aims to create a smart phone that can seamlessly switch between networks, automatically choosing the best available one for voice and data services.
The goal of the MOES card is to allow users to get the best possible service without needing multiple SIM cards or phones. Aibinu explained that the proposed “cognitive phone” would use artificial intelligence (AI) to pick the network with the strongest signal and best service. This would ensure that users experience smooth service, even when they are traveling, by automatically switching networks as needed.
How the Research Works
The development of the MOES card began by examining SIM card information and testing different approaches to solve the problem. Aibinu’s team found that SIM cards store specific data that can be used to help identify the best network for each user. Their research focused on how to use this information to allow for seamless transitions between networks.
One key challenge was ensuring that users wouldn’t experience dropped calls or poor service when switching from one network to another. To solve this, the researchers used a two-step process, combining artificial neural networks (ANN) and fuzzy logic. This would predict the best time and network for handover, ensuring a stable connection.
Since 2015, the team has been working on building and testing prototypes of the cognitive phone, and they are now on the fourth version of their model. They have also applied what they’ve learned to other projects, like an emergency phone booth and a tracking system, both of which are being prepared for production.
**Next Steps**
The next phase of the project is filing a patent for the MOES technology. The research has already earned praise, including an award for best research at FUT Minna’s 2017 Convocation Research and Development Exhibition. The project has also trained more than 16 students at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
Aibinu thanked the NCC for supporting the research, which is a big step toward solving Nigeria’s ongoing mobile service issues. With mobile connectivity becoming more essential in everyday life, innovations like the MOES card could make a real difference in ensuring Nigerians have access to reliable, high-quality mobile service.
