Nigeria has moved closer to launching two new communications satellites after securing government approval for the project.
The plan could strengthen internet access, broadcasting and other digital services across the country.
NIGCOMSAT is now engaging Israeli and French manufacturers as technical planning for the satellites begins.
The two spacecraft, NigComSat-2A and NigComSat-2B, will be built by Israel Aerospace Industries and Thales Alenia Space.
The Nigeria new satellites project entered a fresh stage after approval from the Federal Executive Council.
NIGCOMSAT said talks now focus on contracts, technical planning, production and eventual deployment.
Managing Director Jane Nkechi Egerton-Idehen described the approval as an important step for Nigeria’s digital future.
“Our priority is to translate this investment into measurable value for Nigerians and position NIGCOMSAT for stronger impact within the global satellite and digital economy,” she said.
The first satellite is expected to launch by the end of 2028.
The second launch is planned for 2029 or 2030, according to NIGCOMSAT’s Corporate Affairs Division.
The Nigeria new satellites are expected to improve broadband, broadcasting, business connectivity and government communications.
They could also extend digital services to remote areas where traditional network infrastructure remains difficult to build.
Education, healthcare, agriculture, banking and other sectors are expected to benefit from the added capacity.
The project forms part of wider government efforts to expand Nigeria’s communications infrastructure.
