NIGCOMSAT Reaffirms Commitment to Satellite Technology for Nigeria’s Sustainable Future

The Nigerian Communications Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) has reaffirmed its commitment to leveraging satellite technology as a cornerstone for Nigeria’s sustainable future, driving impact across diverse sectors by bridging the digital divide.

The Managing Director of NIGCOMSAT, Mrs. Nkechi Jane Egerton-Idehen, made this statement at a press conference marking the maiden Nigerian Satellite Week in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.

Mrs. Egerton-Idehen explained that the event aims to unbundle and showcase the transformative potential of satellite technology for Nigeria. According to her, this sets the stage for progress in the nation’s economy, security, healthcare, education, and more, while fostering connections and partnerships.

“Our goal is to ensure that satellite technology becomes a cornerstone of Nigeria’s sustainable future, driving impact across diverse sectors, even in the most remote areas,” she said.

Egerton-Idehen emphasised that the event represents a pivotal moment for Nigeria’s satellite and space industry, as stakeholders gather to explore how communication satellites can drive the country’s sustainable development across various industries and initiatives.

“This event was created to bring together experts, industry players, investors, policy leaders, innovators, and decision-makers from across the public and private sectors, both locally and internationally.

“The Nigerian Satellite Week is designed to be more than just a platform for discussions; it’s a springboard for action. Each day of this event has been meticulously planned to highlight critical areas where satellite technology can revolutionize our nation.

“The Stakeholders’ Forum, which takes place tomorrow (Thursday), will be a critical day for in-depth dialogue and collaboration. We will engage with thought leaders, policymakers, regulators, and industry players to explore how satellites can serve as a bridge to Nigeria’s digital economy,” she explained.

The NIGCOMSAT head also highlighted the upcoming Agency’s Accelerator Demo Day on Friday, where startups from the 9-month accelerator program will showcase their innovative solutions, stressing that these startups represent the future of Nigeria’s space sector.

“This is the day we will witness entrepreneurship and innovation in action, with pitches from startups ready to transform the industry. We’ll also have fireside chats and panels discussing the role of public-private partnerships and entrepreneurship in driving space sector growth.

Also Read: NIGCOMSAT Announces the 2024 Nigerian Satellite Week

“This week is not just about conversations in rooms; it’s about inspiring action long after the weekends. It’s about taking the next step—moving from dialogue to action.

“I urge every attendees, stakeholders, and partners—to fully engage, not just during the event but beyond it. We need every sector of society to understand and support the satellite industry if we are to truly unlock its potential for national development,” Egerton-Idehen emphasised.

“Let’s build collaborations, foster innovation, and ensure that the outcomes of this week lead to real, lasting progress. We are building something greater than ourselves: a connected, resilient Nigeria powered by satellite technology,” she added.

The Satellite Week is themed: “Empowering Nigeria’s Digital Future: Innovation in Satellite Technology and Entrepreneurship.”

Egerton-Idehen identified a lack of awareness as a major challenge faced by NIGCOMSAT regarding its value and services among Nigerians.

“One of the biggest challenges we face is that a lot of people are not even aware of our products, our services, what a satellite can do, and how it can impact our economy. And that becomes a challenge. If you’re not aware, you cannot use it,” she said.

Addressing compliance with an Executive Order mandating government agencies and institutions to patronize NigComSat, she questioned the lack of enforcement.

“Yes, and the question we’re asking is, why is it not being enforced? Why is it that we have invested so much to launch a satellite in space and we’re not using it? And it’s also not helping because what we’re then doing is promoting capital flight.

“Because if you’re not using your nation-owned satellite, where the government has invested, where do you spend that money?” she asked.

She also called on all sectors of society to support NigComSat for national development. “We need every sector of society to understand and support the satellite industry if we are to truly unlock its potential for national development.

“Our goal is to ensure that satellite technology becomes a cornerstone of Nigeria’s sustainable future, driving impact across diverse sectors, even in the most remote areas. Let’s build collaborations, foster innovation, and ensure that the outcomes of this week lead to real, lasting progress.”