The Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT) has begun the process of replacing its communications satellite, NIGCOMSAT-1R, by actively seeking international investors and partners. This initiative, led by NIGCOMSAT’s Managing Director Jane Nkechi Egerton-Idehen, responds to the impending end of NIGCOMSAT-1R’s operational lifespan, anticipated in 2026 after 15 years of service.
In preparation for the satellite's lifecycle completion, NIGCOMSAT management is taking proactive measures to ensure uninterrupted service. This approach aims to secure a seamless transition to new satellite infrastructure.
The project's significance and call for collaboration have been highlighted in the Global Satellite Operators Association newsletter, where NIGCOMSAT’s plans were featured in the "Member in the Spotlight" section. The newsletter details NIGCOMSAT’s ambitious plans to advance satellite communications through the development of NIGCOMSAT-2 and NIGCOMSAT-3, which are expected to expand and transform connectivity capabilities both regionally and globally.
Aligned with its strategic focus on technological advancements, NIGCOMSAT recently partnered with Dimension Data. This collaboration involves NIGCOMSAT providing Internet services through its NigComSat-1R satellite network to Dimension Data for an initial period of one year.
The NigComSat-1R satellite, which was launched as a replacement for the unsuccessful NigComSat-1 in 2007, has faced challenges in attracting customers. The issue of low patronage has been a concern, leading to discussions about the satellite’s future. The former Minister of Communications, Barrister Adebayo Shittu, had previously pushed for the replacement of the satellite and suggested the possibility of securing a $550 million loan from the China-Exim Bank. This loan would be used to fund the acquisition of two additional satellites to serve as backups, ensuring the reliability and continuity of satellite services provided by NIGCOMSAT.
In 2021, Dr. Abimbola Alale, who was serving as the Director of NIGCOMSAT at the time, made an announcement regarding the company’s plans to expand its satellite fleet. The intention was to acquire two additional satellites in the period leading up to 2025, further bolstering NIGCOMSAT’s capabilities in space communications.
On a separate but related note, the Nigerian government made a significant announcement in June 2024, revealing its ambitious plan to send the first Nigerian citizen into space. This historic initiative is a collaboration between the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) and the Space Exploration and Research Agency (SERA). The announcement marked a momentous step for Nigeria in space exploration, coming nearly sixty years after humanity’s first journey to space.
However, in March 2024, NASRDA faced a setback when it disclosed that its plans to launch a satellite from Nigerian soil in 2025 would not materialize. The reason cited for this decision was the lack of sufficient funds required to undertake the satellite launch, highlighting the financial challenges faced by the agency in advancing its space program.
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