By Daniel Tyokua
The Federal Government has approved the acquisition and deployment of two next-generation High-Throughput Communication Satellites, NIGCOMSAT-2A and NIGCOMSAT-2B, to improve digital connectivity nationwide.
In a statement issued on Saturday by Stephen Kwande, head, corporate affairs NigComSat, said the two satellites are designed to provide high-capacity connectivity for broadband, broadcasting, enterprise communications, government services and other critical digital applications.
It said the deployment is also expected to extend reliable connectivity to underserved, unserved and hard-to-reach communities, particularly locations where conventional terrestrial broadband infrastructure is difficult or costly to deploy.
The statement explained that the approval by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) marks the commencement of the next phase of the project, with Nigeria Communications Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT) leading the implementation under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy.
According to the statement, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of NIGCOMSAT, Jane Nkechi Egerton-Idehen, described the approval as a major milestone for the company and Nigeria’s digital development.
She said the new satellites would strengthen the country’s national satellite capacity, expand connectivity and support critical communications across the country.
“This is a significant milestone for NIGCOMSAT and for Nigeria, and we commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the leadership and support that have enabled us to reach this stage.
The statement reads,” NIGCOMSAT-2A and NIGCOMSAT-2B will strengthen our national satellite capacity, expand connectivity and support critical communications across the country. 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.
“The additional satellite capacity will support high-capacity broadband, broadcasting, enterprise connectivity, government services and emerging digital applications, while complementing existing terrestrial broadband networks.
“They are expected to widen access to digital services in critical sectors, including education, healthcare, agriculture, financial services, broadcasting and government, while improving the resilience of Nigeria’s communications infrastructure.
“The project is also expected to strengthen secure and resilient communications for critical national requirements, including national security and defence, while reducing excessive dependence on external satellite infrastructure.
“Beyond connectivity, the investment is projected to stimulate activities across Nigeria’s satellite and digital technology value chain, including telecommunications, broadcasting, ground infrastructure, systems integration, technical support, satellite terminals and other satellite-enabled services.
“It is also expected to deepen indigenous capacity through knowledge transfer, professional development and the growth of specialised expertise in satellite engineering, network operations, cybersecurity and emerging space technologies.
“Following the FEC approval, the acquisition and deployment process will proceed to the next stage, including formal engagement with technology partners, contract finalisation, technical planning and other preparatory activities for the manufacture, launch and eventual deployment of the satellites.
“The satellites will be delivered by Thales Alenia Space of France and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), with NIGCOMSAT coordinating implementation in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy and other relevant stakeholders”
