Nkechi Jane Egerton-Idehen, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT), has described the development of NigComSat-2A as a major milestone in Nigeria’s digital transformation, saying the satellite will expand access to broadband and digital services across Africa.
“NigComSat-2A will not only strengthen our nation’s satellite communications capacity but also expand access to reliable broadband and digital services for millions of Africans, especially in underserved and remote communities,” Egerton-Idehen said.
Her comments followed the signing of an agreement between NIGCOMSAT and Thales Alenia Space for the development of the next-generation telecommunications satellite, which will operate from geostationary orbit.
The project is expected to strengthen Nigeria’s satellite communications infrastructure while extending connectivity to communities where terrestrial broadband networks remain limited or difficult to deploy.
With improved satellite capacity, underserved populations could gain better access to digital services including online education, healthcare, financial services, e-commerce, e-government platforms and digital employment opportunities.
The infrastructure could also provide businesses, public institutions and communities outside major urban centres with additional connectivity options, supporting wider participation in Africa’s growing digital economy.
Egerton-Idehen said the project underscores NIGCOMSAT’s commitment to driving connectivity, fostering innovation and enabling economic growth across the continent.
“We are proud to partner with Thales Alenia Space in delivering a satellite that will empower Africa’s digital future,” she said.
Also commenting, Hervé Derrey, President and CEO of Thales Alenia Space, said NigComSat-2A would enable NIGCOMSAT to strengthen its competitive position by delivering reliable, high-quality connectivity and digital content services.
He said the project also demonstrates the capabilities of the company’s Spacebus B2 satellite platform, which is designed around reliability, robustness and efficient delivery.
As African economies increasingly depend on digital connectivity, NigComSat-2A is expected to complement existing terrestrial networks and help narrow the digital divide by extending reliable communications services to areas that remain underserved.