On Tuesday 25th November, 2014 I embarked on another journey to Niamey, the capital of the Republic of Niger. It was at the heat of Boko Haram insurgency and I was gripped with fears and uncertainty. I left my 2 years old boy and 8 months baby girl with my wife who was also in the telecommunications industry. It was difficult and unpalatable decision we both took at the time. It is a story, I always feel sad anytime I remember that faithful morning, leaving behind and looking at faces of my beautiful wife and children. Telecommunications consulting especially when leaving your family behind is not for the faint hearted, it takes determination, understanding and courage to pursue that enterprise.
As I arrived, the bustling city of Niamey greeted me with its vibrant colors and warm hospitality. The sun's golden rays bathed some streets, creating a mesmerizing backdrop for my new home. My role as a 3G RNO consultant on the Alcatel-Lucent project brought with it, a sense of purpose and excitement. Despite the prevailing security concerns in 2014 due to Boko Haram insurgency along the border with Nigeria, I doved to work, constantly adapting and innovating to ensure the successful implementation of the project involving about 12 clusters in Niamey where I was supposed to clean a generic neighbors which had been applied and causing Retainability and Mobility issues in the network with three UMTS frequencies, activate another carrier, provide continue NPO support , QOS Monitoring and reporting. Each day, I found myself collaborating with a diverse team of experts from China and Niger, all united by their shared passion for delivering top-notch telecommunications solutions. Together, I faced the unique challenges posed by the region's rugged terrain and the ever-present threat of insurgency. In the face of adversity, I and the team became beacons of resilience and determination. I tirelessly worked to optimize network performance, ensuring seamless connectivity for the people of Niger. With my expertise and dedication, I helped bridge the digital divide and empower communities through the power of communication. Outside of work, Niger's rich cultural heritage captivated my senses. From the vibrant marketplaces like Nyatala Market, overflowing with lively conversations to the rhythmic beats of traditional music at the Turkish Restaurant, I embraced the local culture with open arms. The warmth of the Nigerien people enveloped me, reminding me of the strength and resilience that lay at the heart of this beautiful country. As the project progressed, I witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of our efforts. My time in Niger, Niamey, amidst the challenges posed by insurgency along the border with Nigeria, showcased not only my technical expertise but also the unwavering spirit. I left a lasting legacy, not just in the form of improved network, but in the lives I touched and the connections I fostered. Thanks to my driver Mr. Gado who picked me from the Airport on my first day of arrival and departure.
The experience in Niger, Niamey, had not only enriched my professional career growth but also gifted me with unforgettable memories and friendships
that would endure beyond borders and time. And so, with a heart full of
gratitude and a mind filled with cherished moments, I bid farewell to Niger, Niamey, knowing that I had made a lasting impact on the lives of the
people I had served.
Thanks to MR. MEWE(Country Manager), AMINA(HR), GADO, BILO, NICO and the Team at Orange Niger, Beatrice(Alcatel Portugal) and the Team in Portugal for the RNC splits and many other assignment we handle together.
