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The Federal Government of Nigeria has disclosed plans to launch two new communication satellites, to be known as NigComSat-2A and NigComSat-2B. Both satellites are expected to bolster Nigeria’s national security. Also, they will help promote economic growth and enhance Nigeria’s digital transformation.
The project will be undertaken by the Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NigComSat Ltd). These satellites will replace NigComSat-1R. NigComSat-1R has been operational since 2011 and is expected to be operational until January 2028, following a recent extension of its lifespan.
The technical adviser for the project, Engr. Tope Yoosuf stated that the new High-Throughput Satellites (HTS) will offer greater coverage throughout West, Central, South, and East Africa. Tope Yosoof, who was speaking at a one-day media training in Abuja.
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The satellites are outfitted with 77 transponders in various frequency bands. They will facilitate the development of education, national security operations and agriculture. They will be beneficial to smart cities, offshore industries, and broadband expansion.
According to Yosoof, the project will use a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. A Request for Proposal (RFP) has already been sent to find international manufacturers and service providers with the know-how to complete the project. Mrs. Jane Nkechi Egerton-Idehen, the managing director and CEO of NigComSat Ltd., emphasised the media’s role in advancing Nigeria’s digital agenda.
Image credit: World Space Business
Also, she emphasised the need for compelling storytelling. She described storytelling as a crucial component to raising public awareness and support for space technology. She stated that public support for space technology is more important than technological advancements and governmental support. “How the media covers our country’s tech stories is just as crucial to our digital transformation as engineers and legislators,” Mrs. Jane Nkechi Egerton-Idehen noted.
Furthermore, the president of the Nigeria Information Technology Reporters’ Association (NITRA), Blessing Olaifa, called the training revolutionary. He called for more government funding to improve NigComSat’s media engagement. He also stated the need for public involvement in the country’s space technology advancement.
Nigeria wants to project itself as standing as Africa’s top spacefaring nation. The expected launch of NigComSat-2A and 2 B is expected to improve ICT access, create jobs, and fast-track inclusiveness and economic growth.
