Technology
FG to Expand Nigeria’s Satellite Capacity With NigComSat-2A, 2B
By Adedapo Adesanya
The federal government has commenced the next phase of its plan to expand Nigeria’s satellite capacity through the acquisition and deployment of NigComSat-2A and 2B, with the project expected to boost connectivity and strengthen critical communications infrastructure.
The government said the satellites will extend broadband and digital connectivity to underserved, unserved and hard-to-reach communities while supporting broadcasting, enterprise connectivity and government services.
According to a statement by the Acting Head of Corporate Affairs Division of the Nigeria Communications Satellite, Mr Stephen Kwande, the chief executive of NigComSat, Ms Jane Egerton-Idehen, described the project as a significant milestone for Nigeria’s satellite sector.
The additional capacity is expected to complement terrestrial broadband networks and support digital services across education, healthcare, agriculture, financial services, broadcasting and other sectors.
The federal government said the satellites will also strengthen secure communications for critical national requirements, including national security and defence, while reducing dependence on external satellite infrastructure.
The project is further expected to create opportunities across telecommunications, broadcasting, ground infrastructure, systems integration, technical support and satellite-enabled services, while promoting local expertise in satellite engineering, network operations and cybersecurity.
The Federal Executive Council (FEC) had approved the project, with the acquisition and deployment process now moving to the next stage, including engagement with technology partners, contract finalisation, technical planning, manufacturing and eventual launch.
The satellites will be delivered by Thales Alenia Space of France and Israel Aerospace Industries, with NigComSat leading the implementation in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy and other relevant stakeholders.
