FEC okays acquisition of two NIGCOMSAT satellites to expand broadband coverage

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved the acquisition and deployment of two new high-throughput communication satellites, NIGCOMSAT-2A and NIGCOMSAT-2B, as part of efforts to expand broadband coverage across Nigeria.

The satellites, to be deployed by the Nigeria Communications Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT), are expected to improve internet connectivity in underserved, unserved and hard-to-reach communities.

The new satellites will also support broadcasting, enterprise connectivity and critical government communication services.

With the approval, the acquisition and deployment project will move into its next stage, with NIGCOMSAT responsible for implementation under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy.

According to the agency in a statement on Saturday, the satellites will complement terrestrial broadband networks by providing wider coverage in areas where conventional infrastructure may be difficult or costly to deploy.

NIGCOMSAT said, “The deployment is expected to extend connectivity to underserved, unserved and hard-to-reach communities, strengthen national communications resilience and increase Nigeria’s capacity to deliver satellite e-enabled services.”

The additional satellite capacity is also expected to support digital services in education, healthcare, agriculture, financial services, broadcasting, enterprise and government, while improving the resilience of communications infrastructure.

Speaking on the development, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NIGCOMSAT, Jane Nkechi Egerton-Idehen, said, “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.

“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.”

Beyond connectivity, the satellites are expected to strengthen secure and resilient communications for critical national requirements, including national security and defence, while reducing excessive dependence on external satellite infrastructure.

Meanwhile, the agency said the deployment is expected to create opportunities across the satellite and digital technology value chain, including telecommunications, broadcasting, ground infrastructure, systems integration, technical support and satellite terminals.

With FEC approval secured, the next stage includes engagement with technology partners, contract finalisation, technical planning and other preparations for the manufacture, launch and eventual deployment of the satellites. The satellites would be delivered by Thales Alenia Space of France and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI).

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