The Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT) has revealed plans to generate N8 billion over the next three years by partnering with private companies, aiming to unlock the potential of its largely underutilized broadband infrastructure. Currently, 93% of NIGCOMSAT’s broadband capacity remains unused, according to the agency.
Speaking at a stakeholder roundtable in Lagos, Mrs. Jane Egerton-Idehen, the Managing Director of NIGCOMSAT, highlighted that broadband services, though the company’s most profitable product line, have seen only seven percent utilization. She noted that sectors such as education, healthcare, defense, and finance could benefit significantly from increased broadband adoption.
“We recognize the immense value and diverse applications of broadband, but we cannot achieve its full potential on our own,” Egerton-Idehen said, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with private-sector partners to drive growth.
To illustrate NIGCOMSAT’s capabilities, she pointed to Project 774, a successful initiative that connected 45 local government secretariats across eight states in just two months—a speed and reach that terrestrial fiber operators could not match. She also highlighted ongoing efforts to provide connectivity to naval vessels and remote communities, further demonstrating the satellite agency’s strategic role in expanding Nigeria’s digital infrastructure.
Egerton-Idehen concluded that strengthening public-private partnerships will be key to maximizing broadband utilization and ensuring NIGCOMSAT’s continued growth in the coming years.
