The Federal Executive Council has approved the acquisition and deployment of two new NIGCOMSAT satellites to expand broadband coverage across Nigeria.
The satellites, designated NIGCOMSAT-2A and NIGCOMSAT-2B, are expected to improve connectivity in underserved, unserved and hard-to-reach communities. The project will be implemented by Nigeria Communications Satellite Limited, NIGCOMSAT, under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy.
According to NIGCOMSAT, the approval moves the satellite acquisition programme into its next phase. The agency said the additional capacity would complement existing terrestrial broadband infrastructure, particularly in locations where conventional networks are difficult or expensive to establish.
NIGCOMSAT said the new satellites would strengthen connectivity for education, healthcare, agriculture, financial services and broadcasting.
They are also expected to improve enterprise connectivity and support digital services delivered by government agencies. The agency said the project would increase Nigeria’s ability to provide satellite-enabled services while strengthening the resilience of national communications infrastructure.
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NIGCOMSAT, Jane Nkechi Egerton-Idehen, described the approval as a significant milestone for the organisation and the country. She commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the support that enabled the project to reach the current stage.
According to Egerton-Idehen, NIGCOMSAT satellites will expand national satellite capacity and strengthen communications services across the country. She added that the organisation’s priority was to ensure the investment generated measurable value for Nigerians while strengthening NIGCOMSAT’s position within the global satellite and digital economy.
Beyond broadband connectivity, the satellites are expected to support secure communications for critical national requirements. These include national security and defence operations.
The additional capacity could also reduce Nigeria’s dependence on external satellite infrastructure for strategic communications. NIGCOMSAT said the project would create opportunities throughout the satellite and digital technology value chain.
Potential beneficiaries include telecommunications companies, broadcasters, ground infrastructure providers, systems integrators and technical support firms. The development could also increase demand for satellite terminals and related technologies.
With FEC approval secured, NIGCOMSAT will proceed with technical and commercial preparations for the project. The next phase is expected to involve engagement with technology partners, contract finalisation and detailed technical planning. Preparations will subsequently cover the manufacture, launch and deployment of the satellites.
The two NIGCOMSAT satellites are expected to be delivered by Thales Alenia Space of France and Israel Aerospace Industries, IAI. The government expects the project to strengthen Nigeria’s digital infrastructure while extending reliable connectivity to communities that remain difficult to reach through conventional broadband networks.
