The Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT) has announced plans to transition fully to software-defined, next-generation satellites by 2028—marking what the agency describes as the most significant technological leap in its history.
Managing Director of NIGCOMSAT, Jane Egerton-Idehen, disclosed this at the opening ceremony of the agency’s 2025 All Hands Strategy Retreat in Abuja. The retreat is themed “Aligning for the Future: Innovation, Collaboration, and Sustainable Growth.”
Egerton-Idehen said the transition represents a complete transformation of the agency’s operational model and future direction.
“We are preparing for the biggest technological transformation in our history,” she stated. “The transition to software-defined, next-generation satellites to be launched by 2028 requires not just new infrastructure but a new organisation, mindset, and culture. You cannot operate an advanced satellite with outdated habits. You cannot innovate with a rigid mindset. You cannot compete globally with a local operational style.”
The NIGCOMSAT boss highlighted ongoing advancements across the digital economy ecosystem, noting that the agency is positioning itself at the centre of Nigeria’s and Africa’s digital connectivity growth.
“What we have presented today is a roadmap for NIGCOMSAT to continue being at the centre of growth in the digital economy space—not just in Nigeria but on the African continent,” she said.
According to her, innovation and sustainable growth will remain the agency’s dual focus as it works to expand satellite-driven solutions across critical sectors such as healthcare, education, and agriculture.
She emphasized the agency’s commitment to building a profitable, revenue-generating, and growth-sustaining organisation even as a public enterprise.
“There are massive projects already rolling out—Projects 774, the DSO project, collaborations with defence and mobile operators. We are beginning to cash in gains, and Nigerians are responding,” she added.
Speaking at the event, the CEO of Data Science Nigeria, Dr. Olubayo Adekaanbi, underscored the transformative potential of a satellite-based digital economy.
“From backbone to backhaul, broadband to broadcast to bundled services, we can ensure that every Nigerian everywhere enjoys the possibilities of technology,” he said. “This will transform agriculture, health, and education using the power of satellites. It will create jobs, boost productivity, and ensure no one is left behind in the new economy.”
