- Tinubu Moves to Strengthen Nigeria’s Space Programme, Approves Satellites
- Says the global space industry is undergoing a major transformation driven by the commercialization of Low Earth Orbit
- Aminu Maida described the initiative as critical to Nigeria’s digital advancement
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is positioning Nigeria at the forefront of the global satellite economy, following approval for the launch of additional satellites aimed at strengthening digital infrastructure and boosting national competitiveness.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the Managing Director of Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited, Jane Nkechi Egerton-Idehen, disclosed this during the second edition of the Nigerian Satellite Week in Abuja, noting that the Federal Government’s renewed commitment reflects a strategic push to leverage space technology for economic growth, security, and digital inclusion.
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According to her, the global space industry is undergoing a major transformation driven by the commercialization of Low Earth Orbit (LEO), expansion of satellite broadband, and increasing dependence on space-based infrastructure.
She explained that Nigeria is not only observing these changes but actively building the technical capacity, institutional frameworks, and innovation pipeline required to compete on the global stage.
Egerton-Idehen revealed that Tinubu has approved the launch of two additional satellites for NIGCOMSAT, describing the development as a significant milestone in strengthening Nigeria’s sovereign satellite capabilities.
She added that efforts are ongoing to maximize the lifespan of NigComSat-1R while preparing for future satellite deployments.
The initiative is expected to enhance broadband penetration, improve digital infrastructure, strengthen national security, and support economic diversification.
Highlighting recent achievements, she said NIGCOMSAT has doubled its revenue over the past two years and secured a Low Earth Orbit connectivity partnership with Eutelsat.
The agency has also initiated collaboration with the Kenya Space Agency and now holds the Vice Chairmanship of the Global Satellite Operators Association.
Through its Project 774 initiative, NIGCOMSAT is working to extend satellite connectivity to all 774 local government areas in Nigeria, with the aim of improving access to healthcare, education, and economic opportunities.
In his remarks, the Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission, Aminu Maida, described the initiative as critical to Nigeria’s digital advancement, stressing the need for collaboration and innovation among stakeholders.
He noted that satellite technology plays a vital role in communication, security, emergency response, and broader technological development.
Also speaking, the Chief of Army Staff, W. Shaibu, represented by K. O. Osemwegie, commended the initiative, describing space technology as an important asset for national development and security.
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