FG Approves Two New Satellites to Power Nigeria’s Digital Future

The Federal Government has approved the purchase of two additional communication satellites as part of an effort to expand broadband access and improve digital services across the country. This move is intended to support economic growth, close digital gaps, and extend reliable internet to underserved areas.

The decision was announced by Dr. Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, following approval from the Federal Executive Council. According to officials, the new satellites will work alongside and eventually succeed NigComSat-1R, which has been kept in service beyond its original lifespan and is now expected to operate until at least 2028.

Nigeria remains one of the few West African countries with operational communication satellites, and the fresh procurement is aimed at strengthening the nation’s digital infrastructure. The government says the satellites will help bridge connectivity gaps in rural and remote regions, improve high-speed internet services, enhance broadcasting capacity, support secure communications for government agencies, and ensure resilience for critical infrastructure.

Tijani confirmed the president’s approval and noted that the satellites will offer high throughput capacity, forming a key part of a broader digital transformation agenda. This agenda also includes plans to roll out up to 90,000 km of fibre-optic cables and erect about 3,700 new telecom towers in communities that currently lack adequate service. Authorities expect these initiatives to bring dependable internet access to around 20 million more Nigerians, with tangible improvements beginning in 2027.

The schedule outlined by government officials places the start of the national fibre rollout in mid-to-late 2026, with the satellites expected to become operational the following year. By boosting connectivity, the project aims to unlock social and economic opportunities, particularly for households, businesses, and public institutions.

According to the government, the investment aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s vision of expanding Nigeria’s economy toward a $1 trillion target and establishing the country as a leader in digital and space technology in Africa. Beyond internet access, officials believe the satellites will spur job creation, increase productivity, and make communication infrastructure more resilient.

Details about the satellites’ manufacturers, launch partners, and precise timelines have not yet been finalised, as procurement processes are still underway. The government said these aspects will be revealed once contracts are awarded and technical arrangements are confirmed.

The initiative builds on earlier plans by Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NigComSat) to adopt modern, high-performance satellite systems capable of supporting broadband, broadcasting, and secure communications on a wider scale.