From L-R, Managing Director, Chief Executive Officer, NIGCOMSAT Ltd, Mrs. Jane Nkechi Egerton-Idehen and the Chief Executive Officer, HOTSPOT, Engr. Morenikeji Aniye during the signing of a partnership agreement between NIGCOMSAT Ltd and HOTSPOT for the deployment of internet connectivity in rural communities across the country.

NIGCOMSAT, Hotspot Partner to Enhance Rural Connectivity

On Jun 28, 2024

Nigerian Communications Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) Limited, Nigeria’s main provider of satellite communication infrastructure, has partnered with Hotspot, a technology startup, to improve rural connectivity in the country.

In a statement according to the Assistant General Manager of Corporate Affairs, Mrs Aisha Bantamsaid this strategic collaboration aims to revolutionize access to reliable and affordable internet services in underserved communities across the country.

Under the agreement, NIGCOMSAT and Hotspot will leverage their respective strengths to deploy cutting-edge satellite technology and innovative connectivity solutions to connect remote and rural areas that have traditionally lacked internet access. By combining NIGCOMSAT’s extensive satellite infrastructure with Hotspot’s expertise in rural connectivity, this partnership will empower communities to bridge the digital divide and unlock new opportunities for socioeconomic development.

Managing Director and CEO of NIGCOMSAT Limited Mrs Jane Nkechi Egerton-Idehen said

“At NIGCOMSAT, we are committed to leveraging our technological capabilities to drive digital transformation and improve the lives of Nigerians, especially those in underserved regions.

“This collaboration with Hotspot highlights our unwavering dedication to connect the unconnected and ensure that no community is left behind in the digital age,“ She said.

Hotspot’s CEO, Morenikeji Aniye, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to work alongside NIGCOMSAT in this endeavour. At Hotspot, connecting the millions of unconnected persons remains a cardinal objective of our mission. By combining our expertise and resources, we will be able to deploy innovative solutions that bring reliable and affordable internet access to rural communities, empowering them to participate fully in the digital economy and access essential services.”

The agreement, signed with Hotspot is part of NIGCOMSAT’s relentless commitment to enhancing its coverage throughout Nigeria and beyond.

NIGCOMSAT Ltd is a communication satellite service provider with coverage over African countries and parts of Europe and Asia, while Hotspot Network Limited is a one-stop shop for all networking and telecommunications needs. The rural connectivity project is also in partnership with the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF), targeting numerous rural communities across Nigeria with services delivered via the NigComSat-1R Ka-Band platform.

The joint initiative between NIGCOMSAT and Hotspot will commence immediately, with plans to roll out the first phase of the project in select rural areas within the next six months. This collaboration underscores NIGCOMSAT’s commitment to bridging the digital divide and positioning Nigeria as a leader in the deployment of cutting-edge satellite communication technologies for the benefit of its citizens.