Alcatel Lands Nigeria DealAlcatel Lands Nigeria Deal

CANNES, France -- Alcatel (Paris: CGEP.PA and NYSE: ALA) today announced that it has signed a contract with Globacom, Nigeria's second national operator, to deploy the latest mobile and fixed multimedia services. Strengthening Alcatel's long-standing strategic cooperation with Globacom, this new turnkey contract will also enable Globacom to reinforce its position in the Nigerian telecom market.

Under the terms of the agreement, Alcatel will expand Globacom national mobile network capacity from its current 2,5 million subscribers to 10 millions by the end of 2005. This covers the Alcatel multi-standard Evolium™ radio access and core network solutions as well as transmission solutions. Alcatel's Intelligent Network (IN) solution and Messaging Suite have already enabled Globacom customer's access to enhanced mobile voice and data services, making Globacom the first Nigerian operator to offer 2.5G high-speed data rates and Multimedia Messaging Services (MMS).

The contract also includes the deployment of a new multi-service IP (MSIP) network using data-aware optical technology, which will enable Globacom to pioneer Triple Play (voice video, data) services in Africa. Based on the scalability and reliability of the MSIP network, Globacom will offer voice and symmetric DSL services to a wider number of business and residential clients, as well as deliver new high-speed Internet access and broadband multimedia services such as Video -on Demand, videoconferencing and broadcast TV. These services will be offered initially in 10 major cities. Alcatel's solution will allow Globacom to meet the growing subscriber demand for fixed telecommunications services and facilitate the migration towards a Next Generation Network.

Alcatel will also deploy a 8,600km submarine cable for Globacom, connecting Nigeria to England. This cable will significantly expand Nigeria's international connectivity since it allows Globacom to connect with the U.S. via the UK. It will also be very beneficial to the region's economic development.

"This agreement cements the outstanding cooperation we have established with Globacom since its inception," said Etienne Fouques, Alcatel Executive Vice President. "Our historical collaboration in mobile will now be broadened to multimedia fixed services delivering a network infrastructure that will help end-users to enjoy the most advanced services."

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