NIGCOMSAT MD Highlights Satellites’ Role in Connecting Rural Areas

The Managing Director of the Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT), Jane Nkechi, has highlighted satellite connectivity as a key solution to extending internet and communication services to hard-to-reach areas across Nigeria.

Nkechi said satellite technology could bridge the connectivity gap in communities where conventional infrastructure such as fibre-optic networks and mobile telecommunications services would be difficult or commercially unviable to deploy.

She stated this while speaking on Nigeria’s satellite connectivity drive on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily programme.

According to her, while about half of the country is connected, the remaining areas present greater challenges because many are located in deep rural communities, including villages situated on islands and areas with difficult terrain.

“The remaining half is actually the toughest part because that’s the deep rural areas, in the middle of some islands, the village that is on an island,” she said.

Nkechi explained that deploying standard fibre infrastructure or mobile networks to such locations could be difficult because of the terrain and the high cost involved, particularly where there may be limited commercial returns for operators.

She noted that national infrastructure such as satellites therefore becomes important in addressing connectivity gaps in underserved communities.

The NIGCOMSAT boss also highlighted the flexibility of satellite technology, saying it can provide connectivity to moving platforms, including aircraft, helicopters and trains.

“One of the great things is the complex use; every solution has a strength. You can put connectivity on a plane, on a helicopter, on a moving train,” she said.

Nkechi explained that satellite connectivity works by establishing a direct link between users and satellites in space, making it possible to provide communication services even in locations without fibre networks or mobile operator coverage.

She further identified satellite connectivity as particularly valuable to the military and security agencies because of its potential to support intelligence gathering and faster communication.

According to her, the ability to maintain connectivity in difficult locations can enhance the speed at which security agencies receive and act on intelligence.

“It is definitely good for military because of their work, intelligence and the speed of the intelligence, so that they can make more time efficient. It’s so important,” she said.

Nkechi said the expansion of satellite connectivity could therefore play an important role in Nigeria’s efforts to achieve wider digital inclusion while supporting national security and communication in remote locations.