GPS_BeiDou Hybrid Operation Performance in Nigeria Towards Seamless Applications

This study evaluates the performance of GPS-only, Beidou-only, and hybridized GPS_BeiDou constellations in Nigeria, aiming to assess positional stability and the benefits of multi-constellation integration. A dual-frequency u-blox ZED-F9P GNSS receiver was deployed at Ladoke GNSS Laboratory (LGL) (8.17054400°N, 4.26892783°E, 403.411m) Department of Pure and Applied Physics, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Nigeria, to collect continuous 24-hour GNSS observations data. The raw data collected were analyzed in four stages, including carrier-to-noise density ratio (C/N₀), number of satellites visible (NSV), satellite elevation angles, positional variation, and Single Point Positioning (SPP) accuracy. The results showed that GPS L1 signals had the highest average C/N₀ values, while BeiDou L1 signals exhibited the lowest and most variable C/N₀ values. GPS-only solutions exhibited moderate stability, while BeiDou-only results were more unstable and less accurate. The hybridized GPS_BeiDou mode of operations delivered the best positioning performance, with average values of 2DRMS of 2.9 m, CEP of 1.3 m, SEP of 3.5 m, and MRSE of 4.1 m. In conclusion, hybridizing GPS and BeiDou constellations significantly improves GNSS positioning accuracy, reliability, and availability in Nigeria. GPS provides broader coverage and more stable geometry, while BeiDou offers stronger signals and extended visibility hours. Their complementary features make the hybridized mode of operation more robust for precision applications in Nigeria. It is recommended that GNSS users in Nigeria should adopt multi-constellation hybridization and elevation masks above 20°.