The Federal Government has intensified efforts to deploy new communication satellites aimed at strengthening national security and expanding broadband access across the country.
The Managing Director of Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited, Jane Egerton-Idehen, disclosed this on Monday during the Nigerian Satellite Week held in Abuja.
She said the planned satellites, NIGCOMSAT-2A and NIGCOMSAT-2B, are currently at the financing and implementation stage, having moved beyond the procurement phase.
According to her, the satellites are scheduled for launch in 2028 and 2029, and are expected to enhance intelligence gathering, surveillance and communication capabilities within Nigeria and neighbouring countries.
Egerton-Idehen noted that the deployment would support security agencies with real-time data collection and improve response to emerging threats.
Also speaking, the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, said the initiative forms part of a broader government strategy to deepen digital infrastructure and bridge connectivity gaps.
He explained that the satellite programme complements ongoing investments in fibre-optic expansion and will extend internet access to underserved and remote communities.
Tijani added that improved connectivity would also foster regional integration, noting that some neighbouring countries currently face higher internet costs.
“Satellite technology plays a critical role in areas such as education, agriculture and business operations, particularly in locations where terrestrial infrastructure is limited,” he said.
The Chief of Army Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, represented by the Commander of the Nigerian Army Cyber Warfare Command, Maj. Gen. Kennedy Osemwegie, stressed the importance of space technology in modern security operations.
He said the military is increasingly leveraging satellite systems to enhance intelligence gathering, surveillance, communication and disaster response.
Osemwegie added that collaboration among the military, government agencies, private sector and international partners has strengthened Nigeria’s capacity in satellite-based operations.
The Federal Government expressed optimism that the deployment of the new satellites will improve national security architecture, expand digital access and support economic activities across various sectors.
