By Daniel Oluwatobiloba Popoola
The Federal Government has moved the acquisition and deployment of NigComSat 2A and NigComSat 2B into the next phase of implementation, in a push to expand Nigeria’s satellite capacity, extend broadband connectivity to underserved communities and reduce dependence on external satellite infrastructure.
The development was disclosed in a statement signed by the Acting Head of Corporate Affairs Division of the Nigeria Communications Satellite, Stephen Kwande, describing it as part of the Federal Government’s broader investment in digital infrastructure and national connectivity in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
NigComSat Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Jane Egerton-Idehen, described the development as a significant milestone. “NigComSat 2A and NigComSat 2B will strengthen our national satellite capacity, expand connectivity and support critical communications across the country,” she said. “Our priority is to translate this investment into measurable value for Nigerians and position NIGCOMSAT for stronger impact within the global satellite and digital economy.” She commended President Tinubu for the leadership and support that enabled the country to reach the stage.
The additional satellite capacity will support high-capacity broadband, broadcasting, enterprise connectivity, government services and other emerging digital applications, complementing terrestrial broadband networks by providing wider coverage in locations where conventional infrastructure is difficult or costly to deploy.
Beyond connectivity, the deployment will support access to digital services across education, healthcare, agriculture, financial services, broadcasting, enterprise and government, while strengthening secure and resilient communications for critical national requirements, including defence and national security, and reducing excessive dependence on external satellite infrastructure.
The deployment is also expected to create opportunities across Nigeria’s satellite and digital technology value chain ;spanning telecommunications, broadcasting, ground infrastructure, systems integration, technical support and satellite terminals, while supporting indigenous capacity development through knowledge transfer, local manufacturing and the growth of specialised expertise in satellite engineering, network operations and cybersecurity.
With Federal Executive Council approval secured, the process moves into formal engagement with technology partners, contract finalisation and technical planning ahead of manufacture, launch and deployment.
The satellites will be delivered by Thales Alenia Space of France and Israel Aerospace Industries, with NigComSat leading implementation in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy and other relevant stakeholders.
