The Nigerian Communications Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) Ltd and the Kenyan Space Agency (KSA) have opened discussions on forging strategic collaboration in space technology, with a particular focus on leveraging services provided by NigComSat-1R.
During a courtesy visit to NIGCOMSAT’s Ground Control facility in Abuja, the Managing Director of NIGCOMSAT Ltd, Mrs Jane Nkechi Egerton-Idehen, received the Director General of KSA, Brigadier (Rtd.) Hillary Kipkosgey, and welcomed the agency’s interest in partnership, describing it as a significant step towards advancing Africa’s space industry.
“Nigeria’s investment in the space sector was driven by visionary leadership that recognised the potential of space technology to grow our economy, build a robust ecosystem, and attract global investors.
“I believe this collaboration can help address critical issues such as national security, sustainability, and sovereignty,” Mrs Egerton-Idehen said.

She stressed the importance of African nations playing an active role in shaping the future of space policy and innovation.
“From Morocco to Egypt, Kenya to South Africa, Nigeria and now Angola—Africa must claim its seat at the table. Not because it was handed to us, but because we have earned it through decades of dedication and leadership in this sector.”
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In response, Brigadier Kipkosgey explained that the visit aimed to gain deeper insight into NIGCOMSAT’s service offerings and explore potential areas of collaboration, complementing KSA’s ongoing engagements with the Nigerian Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) and the Defence Space Agency (DSA).
“We are here to build a closer working relationship with our Nigerian counterparts,” he said.

He also lamented the limited frequency of interaction among African space agencies, which typically meet only once a year.
“To achieve meaningful progress, we need deeper engagement and more frequent dialogue. One-on-one discussions like this are essential to forging productive partnerships and driving the continent’s space ambitions forward.”
The Kenyan Space Agency operates under the Ministry of Defence and comprises a significant number of civilian staff, reflecting its commitment to inclusive and strategic development in the sector.

