Free Space Optical (FSO) Communication as a Complement to RF Systems in Nigeria

Okafor; Joyce Odu; Geku Diton

doi:10.56201/rjpst.vol.8.no8.2025.pg102.112

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Free Space Optical (FSO) Communication as a Complement to RF Systems in Nigeria

Okafor, Joyce Odu, Geku Diton

Abstract

The rapid growth of digital services in Nigeria has intensified the demand for high-capacity, reliable, and cost-effective communication systems. Free Space Optical (FSO) communication presents a viable solution due to its high data rate, immunity to spectrum congestion, and cost efficiency compared to fibre optic cabling. However, its practical deployment in Nigeria is constrained by climatic conditions such as rainfall, fog, and dust storms, which significantly attenuate optical signals and reduce performance reliability. This study critically examined the potential of FSO communication and its integration with Radio Frequency (RF) systems to enhance wireless communication in Nigeria. Using a qualitative research design anchored on secondary data and literature synthesis, the study evaluated the impact of weather conditions on FSO link performance, highlighted the strengths of hybrid FSO-RF models, and assessed feasibility for supporting next-generation technologies including 5G, Internet of Things (IoT), and smart city applications. The findings revealed that while standalone FSO is vulnerable to Nigeria’s weather patterns, hybrid deployment with RF ensures resilience, stability, and continuity of service. The study concludes that hybrid FSO-RF systems offer a strategic pathway to improving wireless infrastructure in Nigeria and recommends the implementation of hybrid FSO-RF architectures, government incentives for pilot deployments, the establishment of weather-adaptive algorithms, and training of local engineers to enhance operational capacity. These measures will not only guarantee reliable service delivery but also strengthen Nigeria’s preparedness for emerging technologies such as 5G, Internet of Things (IoT), and smart city initiatives.

Keywords

AttenuationFree Space OpticsHybrid SystemsNigeriaRadio Frequency

References

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Free Space Optical (FSO) Communication as a Complement to RF Systems in Nigeria

Abstract

Keywords

References

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