The Federal Government has announced plans to launch two new communication satellites — NigComSat-2A and NigComSat-2B to boost Nigeria’s digital infrastructure, national security, and economic development.
The two new satellites will replace the current NigComSat-1R, which has been in operation since 2011. Although it was originally expected to end its service in 2026, the satellite’s lifespan has been extended to January 2028, giving the country more time to transition to a new and improved system.
The announcement was made during a one-day media training held in Abuja, organised by the Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NigComSat Ltd), the agency in charge of managing Nigeria’s satellite programmes.
Speaking at the event, Engr. Tope Yosoof revealed that the new satellites will be High-Throughput Satellites (HTS), capable of providing strong and wide coverage across West, Central, South, and parts of East Africa.
Yosoof explained that the satellites will come with 77 transponders on multiple frequency bands, allowing them to support a wide range of services. These include broadband internet, education, agriculture, defence, offshore oil operations, media broadcasting, and smart city development.
“This is a major step forward in Nigeria’s digital transformation journey,” Yosoof said. “These satellites will allow us to meet the growing demand for internet access and digital services not only in Nigeria but across the region.”
According to Yosoof, the satellite project will be implemented using a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. The aim is to bring in international satellite manufacturers, service providers, and investors to support the project.
A Request for Proposal (RFP) has already been issued to attract global players interested in taking part in the initiative.
This model is expected to reduce the financial burden on the government while also ensuring efficiency and access to cutting-edge technology.
Managing Director and CEO of NigComSat Ltd, Mrs. Jane Nkechi Egerton-Idehen, stressed the importance of media in creating awareness and public support for Nigeria’s space and digital initiatives.
“Our digital future doesn’t depend on engineers alone. It also depends on how the media tells Nigeria’s technology story,” she said.
She encouraged journalists to learn more about satellite technology and help communicate its benefits to the average Nigerian, especially those in rural and underserved areas.
President of the Nigeria Information Technology Reporters’ Association (NITRA), Blessing Olaifa, praised the training and described it as a “game-changer” for improving public understanding of Nigeria’s space programme.
He also called for increased funding and media support for NigComSat Ltd to enhance its outreach and engagement with the Nigerian public.
With the launch of NigComSat-2A and 2B, Nigeria is hoping to become a stronger player in Africa’s growing space and digital economy.
The satellites are expected to:
Improve internet access across rural and urban areas
Support digital education and online learning
Enhance national security and intelligence operations
Boost agricultural technology and data collection
Create jobs in the ICT and satellite sectors
Attract foreign investment and partnerships
For now, the timeline for the actual launch has not been announced, but officials say the project is already in motion and will follow global best practices to ensure success.
With NigComSat-2A and 2B, Nigeria is taking another bold step toward becoming a leading digital and space technology hub in Africa.
