NIGCOMSAT claims it can rescue telcos from network crisis

The Nigerian Communications Satellite Ltd (NIGCOMSAT) expressed sympathy for the challenging conditions faced by telecom operators, on August 15, 2024, which have led to very poor telecom services in the country.

The satellite company said it was out to allow the telcos leverage on its solutions and services to improve service offerings. 

The company also offers telecom operators opportunities to access equipment and services from its original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), with payments in local currency.

This helps bypass the challenging foreign exchange processes involved in acquiring most facilities.

The company announced this during a one-day K-A Vsat training program for its channel partners in Ikoyi, Lagos.

Director General/Chief Executive Officer of Nigcomsat, Mrs. Jane Nkechi Egerton-Idehen, explained the importance of the training through her representative, Olufunke Fagbeja.

Fagbeja is the Head of Marketing and Stakeholders’ Engagement.

She stated that the training aimed to prepare a sufficient number of technical partners.

These partners will be knowledgeable and skilled in installing VSAT equipment to extend connectivity throughout the country.

Egerton-Idehen stated that NIGCOMSAT aims to bridge the digital divide and ensure reliable communication services across all of Nigeria.

One reason for the training organized by the satellite company was to accelerate connectivity in rural areas through Project 774 LGA Connectivity.

This initiative aims to provide internet access to all 774 Local Government Secretariats in Nigeria.

The project, led by the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, aims to create jobs and reduce youth crime by addressing unemployment.

About NIGCOMSAT

NIGCOMSAT is a government-owned company established in 2006 to manage Nigeria’s communication satellites.

The organization operates under the Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy.

It provides satellite communication solutions for telecommunications, broadcasting, and broadband services.

NIGCOMSAT ‘s operations

NIGCOMSAT operates the NigComSat-1R satellite, which was launched in 2011 to replace the original NigComSat-1 that failed in orbit in 2008.

NigComSat-1R is a hybrid geostationary satellite that offers multiple services.

Broadcasting services: Provides Direct-To-Home (DTH) television services, including transponder leasing for broadcasting companies.

Broadband services: Offers broadband internet services, which are crucial for enhancing internet penetration, particularly in underserved regions.

Transponder leasing: Provides satellite transponder services to other satellite service providers, including those in telecommunications and broadcasting.

Enterprise solutions: NIGCOMSAT provides customized solutions for businesses, government agencies, and non-profits, using satellite communication technologies to enhance connectivity.

Key partnerships and initiatives

NIGCOMSAT is actively involved in various partnerships to expand its reach and improve connectivity across Nigeria:

Rural connectivity: In partnership with Hotspot Network Limited, NIGCOMSAT is working to bring internet connectivity to rural and underserved areas.

They are using satellite technology to achieve this goal.

This initiative is part of a broader mission to bridge the digital divide and ensure that all Nigerians have access to digital services.

Telecommunication support: NIGCOMSAT collaborates with companies like INFRATEL Africa to provide satellite-based solutions.

These solutions enhance network coverage, especially in areas where traditional telecom infrastructure is inadequate.

These partnerships help telecom companies expand their services to more remote regions, thereby boosting overall connectivity in the country.

Strategic importance

NIGCOMSAT plays a critical role in Nigeria’s ICT landscape.

Its satellite infrastructure is crucial for extending digital services to remote areas and supporting government initiatives like the National Broadband Plan.

This infrastructure also promotes digital inclusion.

NIGCOMSAT supports the country’s digital economy by providing DTH broadcasting, enterprise connectivity, and broadband internet services.

Challenges and future outlook

Despite its significant contributions, NIGCOMSAT faces challenges.

It needs further investments to enhance its infrastructure and remain competitive in the rapidly evolving global satellite industry.

The organization’s future goals include launching more advanced satellites and continuing to expand its service offerings, both within Nigeria and in other parts of Africa.

In summary, NIGCOMSAT is a cornerstone of Nigeria’s digital infrastructure, leveraging satellite technology to provide essential communication services across the country.

It particularly supports underserved areas and contributes to national development and digital transformation.

For Diaspora Digital Media Updates click on Whatsapp, or Telegram. For eyewitness accounts/ reports/ articles, write to: citizenreports@diasporadigitalmedia.com. Follow us on X (Fomerly Twitter) or Facebook