Tijani hails Nigeria’s growing influence in global satellite industry
Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, has hailed Nigeria’s growing influence in the global satellite industry, describing the country’s new role in international decision-making as a milestone for its digital economy and Africa’s connectivity ambitions.
His remarks follow the appointment of Jane Nkechi Egerton-Idehen, Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian Communications Satellite, as Vice Chair of the Global Satellite Operators Association Board. “This milestone not only highlights Jane’s remarkable leadership but also cements Nigeria’s place at the table of global decision-making in the satellite and space ecosystem,” Tijani wrote on LinkedIn. “It recognises the progress we are making to strengthen our digital economy and build inclusive connectivity across Africa.
”Egerton-Idehen, who was appointed CEO of NIGCOMSAT by President Bola Tinubu in October 2023, described the role as both an honour and a responsibility. “Nigeria takes a seat, and Africa takes a stand! I am proud to serve as Vice Chair of GSOA and to bring diverse perspectives to the global conversation while promoting inclusive and sustainable connectivity,” she said. Based in Paris, the GSOA represents the global satellite ecosystem, including communications and earth-observation operators, manufacturers, launch providers, ground-segment players, and related stakeholders.Under Egerton-Idehen’s leadership, NIGCOMSAT is pursuing an ambitious plan to revolutionise satellite services in Nigeria.
The company plans to launch two new communication satellites, NigComSat-2A and NigComSat-2B, by 2028 to replace the ageing NigComSat-1R.Classified as high-throughput satellites with 77 transponders across C, Ka, and Ku bands, they are expected to extend coverage across West, Central, and Southern Africa, and parts of East Africa. The satellites will support broadband connectivity, national security, education, media, agriculture, offshore operations, and smart city applications. The project is being executed under a public–private partnership model, with global manufacturers and service providers invited to participate through requests for proposals.
Beyond satellite launches, NIGCOMSAT is targeting N8bn in revenue over the next three years by scaling up broadband services. Currently, only seven per cent of its broadband capacity is utilised, but the company plans to increase uptake by connecting underserved areas, including local government offices, naval ships, and remote communities without terrestrial networks.
The satellite operator is also collaborating with the National Broadcasting Commission to advance Nigeria’s digital switchover, expanding broadcast coverage through affordable satellite dishes, hybrid devices, and internet-enabled set-top boxes. Egerton-Idehen, a seasoned technology executive, author, and angel investor, has over two decades of international experience in telecommunications and satellite communications.
Her GSOA appointment, coupled with NIGCOMSAT’s expansion drive, positions Nigeria as a key stakeholder in shaping the global digital economy while strengthening Africa’s voice in satellite governance.
