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Tag: NIGCOMSAT

  • Nigeria races to deploy 5G services using expiring satellite

    Nigeria races to deploy 5G services using expiring satellite

    The federal government of Nigeria has approved the migration of C-Band services on NigComSat-1R Satellite with a seven and a half (7.5) years life span to accelerate the deployment of 5G systems in the country.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports Dr Femi Adeluyi, Technical Assistant (Research & Development) to Professor Isa Ali Pantami, the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy made this known in a statement on Thursday.

    According to Dr Adeluyi, the approval to migrate C-Band services on NigComSat-1R Satellite, which currently operates C-Band services on the 3.4 – 3.9GHz spectrum range, with which the country hopes to deploy 5G services, was given at the Federal Executive Council meeting of 29th May 2022.

    Recall that the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) had requested that a part of the C-Band spectrum within the country’s telecommunications industry be cleared of any encumbrances and current users on the affected spectrum be migrated, towards the successful roll-out/deployment of 5G technology in the country.

    Following the presentation of three (3) memos by the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy at the FEC meeting, the request was granted. According to the statement by Adeluyi, the FEC also approved an Enterprise Licensing Agreement for Microsoft Products.

    The statement reads: “The Federal Executive Council approved an Enterprise Licensing Agreement for Microsoft Products and the clearing up of C-band Spectrum, in order to accelerate the deployment of 5G services in the country.

    “These took place during the meeting of the Council on the 29th of May, 2022. This followed the presentation of 3 memos by the Honourable Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Professor Isa Ali Ibrahim (Pantami).

    “The Government-wide Enterprise Licensing Agreement for Microsoft products is a software acquisition cost-reduction strategy for government and it will be implemented by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy (FMC&DE).

    “This agreement is part of the Federal Government’s efforts towards keeping the cost of IT projects within sustainable levels.

    “The Agreement will give the government access to discounted prices and other cost benefits, as well as reduce project duplication across Federal Public Institutions (FPIs). It will also guarantee proper technical support for Microsoft products and services, thereby ensuring protection against cybersecurity threats, which will guarantee availability and reliability of government IT services.

    “The Enterprise Licensing Agreement will provide a projected savings of a minimum of 35% of Governments current investment in Microsoft Products and Services. This will not only substantially reduce the cost of license procurement for FPIs, it will reduce and simplify licensing complexity, facilitate accounting and cash flow predictability and monitor utilisation and impact of Government investment. The Council directed all FPIs to key into the Agreement in the procurement of Microsoft licenses and services.

    “Council also approved the request of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to clear part of the C-band spectrum within the country’s telecommunications industry of any encumbrances and migrate the current users on affected spectrum, towards the successful roll-out/deployment of 5G technology in Nigeria.

    “Furthermore, with seven and a half (7.5) years before the end of the lifetime of NigComSat-1R Satellite, operated by Nigerian Communication Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT), which currently operates C-Band services on the 3.4 – 3.9GHz spectrum range, NCC and NIGCOMSAT have come to an agreement to relocate/migrate the operations of NigComSat-1R C Band service to another frequency (Standard C Band) and release its current frequency for immediate deployment of 5G in the country.

    “The approved memos will accelerate the implementation of the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS), especially the pillars on solid infrastructure (broadband) and service infrastructure (platforms). The Ministry will continue to promote initiatives that will transform Nigeria into a country with a sustainable and thriving digital economy”.

    TNG reports Nigeria launched NigComSat-1R in 2011 to replace NigComSat-1, which failed in orbit. The satellite was launched with a life span of 15 years, and it is expected to expire in 2026. However, NIGCOMSAT had said it would launch two new satellites, NigComSat-2 and NigComSat-3 in 2023 and 2025 respectively to replace NigComSat-1R.

    Recall that after 11 rounds of bidding that lasted eight hours in December 2021, Mafab Communications Ltd and MTN Nigeria Plc dislodged Airtel Networks Ltd to emerge as the two successful winners of the 3.5GHz spectrum auction for the deployment of 5G technology to support the delivery of ubiquitous broadband services in the country.

    ALSO READ || NCC confirms MTN, Mafab have paid for 5G licences

    Nigeria, barring any last minutes changes, is expected to commence the rollout of the 5G technology services by August, the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Prof Umar Danbatta has said.

  • FG to launch 2 additional Satellites

    FG to launch 2 additional Satellites

    The Federal Government on Monday said all is set to launch two additional Satellites by the Nigeria Communication Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) Limited.
    The Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Prof. Isa Pantami, disclosed this during a facilities tour and interaction with Management team of NIGCOMSAT in Abuja.
    The Newsmen reports that the satellites are: NigComSat-2 and NigComSat- 3.
    “As I earlier said, 2022 has been dedicated to NigComSat and NIPOST and I want to do the best I can to improve what we have achieved in the previous years.
    “I recently approved two subsidiaries of NIGCOMSAT LTD and I am here to supervise what they have been doing.
    “I have discovered some areas where we need to work to improve their performance significantly,” he said.
    Pantami also said that for the agency not to be considered for privatisation again it must provide quality service and generate good revenue.
    “The efforts made to stop the privatisation of NIGCOMSAT is for the good of the company and for the good of the country.
    “You need to turn things around through the Unique and effective service you are able to provide and revenue you generate for government.
    “It is a difficult task to revive an institution and make it very successful. The challenge of reviving NIGCOMSAT is not just a necessity, but an obligation for all the staff,” he said.
    The Minister also said that the purpose of his visit was to address the major challenges that required the attention of the Federal Government.
    Pantami said the visit was to motivate and encourage the staff members on core values which were the guiding principles that must be adopted without compromise to ensure that the organisation succeeded.
    Director-General NIGCOMSAT Abimbola Alale appreciated the efforts of the Federal Government at ensuring that NIGCOMSAT functioned in its full capacity.
    “We appreciate the Minister for the increase in the budgetary allocation for the company that needs capital after overhead.
    “He stood for us and insisted there must be something good in NIGCOMSAT. Because he is a man who believes that we can actually turn around NIGCOMSAT,” she said.
    The Managing-Director also promised the Minister of the agency’s readiness to deliver quality service and generate revenue to justify his efforts in revitalising the agency.
    “This year, the Minister has given us many challenges and I know we are ready to meet the challenges. The subsidiaries are self funding and sustaining.
    “This year, Nigerians needs new significant changes that will make them know that NIGCOMSAT is a new company,”she said.
    Newsmen reports that some of the places visited included in the Facility Tour were the Satellite Control centre (SCC) Network Operations Centre (NOC) and others.
  • Nigeria to acquire 2 more satellites by 2025

    Nigeria to acquire 2 more satellites by 2025

    The Federal Government (FG) of Nigeria will acquire two more satellites by the year 2025, the Nigerian Communication Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) Ltd has revealed.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NIGCOMSAT, Mr Abimbola Alale made this known on Thursday.

    Mr Alale made this known in his address at the organization’s stakeholder forum held at the Providence Hotel, Ikeja, under the theme: “NIGCOMSAT Ltd, The Present and the Future”.

    Alale said that it was targeting 2025 for the acquisition of two additional satellites to boost its global profile as a satellite operator.

    He posited that the future of the organisation was bright as it enjoyed immense support from the supervising ministry, hence the inspiration to perform better.

    “For us at NIGCOMSAT Ltd, the future is bright. The support we have enjoyed from our ministry has inspired us to do more.

    “l am pleased to inform you of our desire to acquire more satellites between now and 2025 with the NigComSat-2 Hight Throughput Satellite, due for launch in 2023, and the NigComSat-3 that will be launched in 2025.

    “This will not only inspire confidence in our customers and channel partners, but also place NIGCOMSAT Ltd in the front line of communication satellite operators with a fleet of satellites in orbit,” he said.

    “I specially acknowledge the relentless efforts of Prof. Isa Ibrahim Pantami, the Hon. Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, on the strategic vision to building a digital Nigeria.

    “He is also repositioning the Ministry, Departments and Agencies (MDA) under his supervision, to be among the major contributors to the nation’s economy, as well as his support to NIGCOMSAT Ltd in the growth of the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

    “Our bid to provide an advance satellite communication solution as our modest contributions to the nation’s digital economy service infrastructure cannot be overemphasized; as one of the key players recognized by the Nigeria National Broadband Plan (NNPB 2020-2025).

    “As part of VSAT/TVRO capacity development programme, NIGCOMSAT has trained 600 youths across the six geo-political zones in the country,” he said.

    Alale said that the trained personnel would be actively involved in the digital economy and thus bringing the desirable results to the country.

    “These youths have been equipped with tools to participate in growing the digital economy’s timely achievement of NIGCOMSAT’s roles as specified in the National Broadband Plan 2020-2025.

    “Satellite communications is a technology that is rapidly changing. In view of this, NIGCOMAT has continued to build capacity that matches global trends and requirements.

    Last year, NIGCOMSAT with the support of some of the stakeholders, sponsored four teams, Astromania, Floews, Future Generations, and Pyloops, to compete in the ActInSpace® international innovation contest of 100 cities across five continents.

    “Nigeria won the audience award, which was based on the popularity of the video created by Team Astromania to provide information about their solution,” he said.

    Alale also reviewed other achievements of NIGCOMSAT, such as procurement of DIALOG HUB with 5IF for the satellite broadband Ka services.

    “Quality of service and customer experience are very important in service delivery. NIGCOMSAT has acquired the latest DIALOG HUB with 5IF for the satellite broadband Ka services, as well as built a stronger relationship with our channel partners.

    “Our business processes are seamless in accordance with International Standard Organisation’s (ISO) certification.

    “NIGCOMSAT, in its bid to achieve its ambition as the leading satellite communication solutions provider in Nigeria and Africa, obtained approval early in 2020 to form two subsidiary companies (SUBCOs) the Satellite Infrastructure Company SIC.

    “They are to provide satellite upstream services such as Transponder leasing, and In-Orbit-(IOT) services, Carrier Spectrum Management (CSM) services, and the Satellite Broadcasting and Broadband Company (SBBC) to provide satellite downstream services, such as broadband internet services, Broadcasting (DTH) services etc,” he said.

    Alale added “The SUBCOs were formed to carry out commercial businesses on behalf of NIGCOMSAT with strategic partners and expand its business operations in the information and communications technology space.

    “NIGCOMSAT realises the need to strategically position its subsidiaries for potential opportunities and risks, put in place by operational structures to facilitate its business aspirations.

    “Accordingly, the Minister has given the company a set of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) that are linked to the development of a strategic document, which identifies the key market opportunities and risks in the Nigerian market as well as to define the SUBCO’s operational framework.

    “More importantly, as apart of the Government-to-Government Business, through some of you, the stakeholders.

    “The Special Project Office of NIGCOMSAT Ltd has successfully deployed modest and ubiquitous services to the health sector by providing an e-platform for automation of work processes at the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) offices across the country,” he said.

    Alale revealed that NIGCOMSAT Ltd had in 2020 provided satellite connectivity services via NigComSat-1R for the live broadcast of the virtual commissioning of the Ajaokuta, Kaduna and Kano (AKK) gas pipeline project by President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR.

    “Another milestone was the achievement, in September 2020, of our collaboration with Thales Alenia Space of France, and the Agency for Aerial Navigation Safety in Africa and Madagascar (ASECNA).

    “This is to provide a Satellite-based Augmentation System (SBAS) using NigComSat-1R Navigational services for the first time over Africa and the Indian Ocean.

    “The demonstration of real SBAS flight in Lome (Togo) using fixed wing Aircraft and Duoala (Cameroun), using Rotor Aircraft. Demonstration was also done in Brazzaville (Congo).

    “Apparently, the stakeholder forum is part of our efforts to rub minds with you on areas you may need our expansion and improvement, in line with our core mandate and our core values,” he said.

  • NCC awaits FG’s final decision to deploy 5G across Nigeria

    NCC awaits FG’s final decision to deploy 5G across Nigeria

    The Nigerian Communications Commission is awaiting the Federal Government’s final decision on the deployment of the 5th Generation (5G) mobile network.

    Prof. Umar Danbatta, the Executive Vice-Chairman (EVC) of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), made this known at signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Nigerian Communications Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) on clearing of C-band for deployment of 5G services on Wednesday in Abuja.

    He said that all the issues associated with the safety of the technology had been adequately addressed in the country.

    “First of all, issues associated with the safety of this technology have been adequately addressed. Nigerians have been sensitised on the safety of this technology with regards to health the security dimension.

    “We have gone to the government and very soon they will come up with a statement on the date for the deployment of 5G services because the policy is equally ready.

    “So the information of the state of readiness as we can see is satisfactory. We have the policy, we have the resource for the deployment of 5G services in the country.

    “We have mobile network operators that are willing to bid for the available spectrum that will be used for the deployment of this subs to Nigerians. So our state of readiness is really high indeed,” he said.

    The EVC intimated that the next step was for the spectrum to be allocated to the NCC by the National Frequency Management Council (NFMC), assuring that government would give approval for the utilisation of the spectrum to deploy 5G services in the country.

    “Well the next step is for the spectrum in question to be allocated to the NCC by the National Frequency Management Council which has the honourable Minister of Communications and Digital Economy as chair.

    “The minister is aware about this signing of the MOU, he has given his blessing and therefore we are not envisaging any problem at the level of the national frequency Management Council.

    “We are assured of getting the approval for the utilisation of the spectrum to deploy 5G services in the country,” he said.

    Speaking further, he said that the 5G, would build on this momentum, bringing substantial network improvements, including higher connection speeds, mobility and capacity, as well as low-latency capabilities.

    “We are glad that the Management of NigComSat and NCC have taken a bold step in the right direction to release contagious quantum of Spectrum in the 3.5GHz band for early deployment of 5G.

    Danbatta, however, said that the 3.4 GHz -3.9GHz arel the best frequency allocated by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU).

    He said that the C-band was most suitable and appropriate for immediate deployment of 5G services taking into consideration availability of device ecosystem with 60-70 per cent of global commercial 5G network deployment currently in the band.

    He said this was the importance of the spectrum for early deployment of 5G services in Nigeria and it cannot be over emphasised.

    According to him, amongst the Frequency Spectrum bands allocated to 5G by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU, the C-band (3.4GHz – 3.9GHz) stands out because its balancing point between coverage and capacity provides the perfect environment for 5G connectivity.

    The two agencies have been in discussions on how to relocate the operations of NG-1R to the standard C-band 300MHz (3.9GHz – 4.2GHz) potion of the band, which is more suitable in terms of Satellite service offering because end user terminal are cheaper there,

    While leaving the non-standard C-band 400MHz (3.5GHz–9GHz) portion of the band for 5G use.

    The cost of relocating the NG-1R is expected to be offset from the proceeds of the auction of the 5G Spectrum.”

    “For optimal 5G service performance, an average of contiguous 100 MHz of spectrum in the C-band is required by an Operator.

    “However in Nigeria, only 120 MHz of the band (3.4 – 3.52) GHz is available for mobile services while the remaining 680 MHz (3.52 – 4.2) GHz of the band is used by NigComSat (NG-1R) satellites”.

    Dr Abimbola Alale, Director/General, NIGCOMSAT, appreciated all stakeholders that made the MoU a reality and added that she cannot thank them enough for their efforts.

  • BREAKING: NCC signs MoU for deployment of 5G services across Nigeria

    BREAKING: NCC signs MoU for deployment of 5G services across Nigeria

    The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) on Wednesday signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to begin the deployment of 5G services across Nigeria.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports 5G is a fifth generation of mobile technology, which is an improvement of today’s 4G technology with enhanced capabilities.

    5G technology provides the platform for new and emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Big Data to improve the way we live and work.

    The NCC signed the MoU with Nigerian Communication Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) Limited to use the C-Band Spectrum for deployment of 5G services in the country.

    Recall that the NCC undertook three months 5G trials in selected locations in Nigeria in November 2019.

    The trial, among others, was to study and observe health or security challenges the 5G network might present.

    “The importance of this Spectrum for early deployment of 5G services in Nigeria cannot be over emphasized.

    “The Commission initiated negotiation with NIGCOMSAT who in our estimate could make some adjustments to its satellite operation and release part of its Spectrum holding in the band to facilitate the deployment of 5G in Nigeria.

    “The impact of this agreement knows no bounds and will not only strengthen the relationship between both agencies but would also go a long way in making a positive impact on the Nigerian economy.

    “The C-band is most suitable and appropriate for immediate deployment of 5G services taking into consideration availability of device ecosystem with 60-70% of global commercial 5G network deployment currently in the band.

    “Amongst the Frequency Spectrum bands allocated to 5G by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), the C-band (3.4GHz – 3.9GHz) stands out because its balancing point between coverage and capacity provides the perfect environment for 5G connectivity.

    “This historic event between the NIGCOMSAT and NCC will facilitate the release of contiguous bandwidth in one of the most suitable Frequency Spectrum band(s) for early deployment of 5G Network services in the largest market in sub-Saharan Africa,” NCC’s Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Prof Umar Danbatta said at the MoU signing ceremony.

  • Beware of dangerous websites, NIGCOMSAT cautions internet users

    Beware of dangerous websites, NIGCOMSAT cautions internet users

    The Nigeria Communication Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) Ltd. has advised internet users to be cautious of the internet fraudsters because of the existence of some dangerous websites.

    Its Managing Director, Dr Abimbola Alale, gave the advice on Wednesday in a statement by Mr Adamu Idris, the General Manager, Corporate Affairs, to commemorate the International Cybersecurity Awareness Month.

    October is the International National Cybersecurity Awareness Month (NCSAM).

    This is to create awareness on cybersecurity and to provide the public with general knowledge and tools required for online safety.

    Alale said that the cyberspace was filled with malicious codes, links, Trojans and viruses with millions of unsuspecting users becoming vulnerable to those threats more than ever before.

    “As we embark on the Cybersecurity Awareness Month, we are bringing to your notice some tips that could keep you safe on the internet.

    “Internet users are, therefore, advised to be in the habit of securing their devices by using strong passwords and biometric features if possible,’’ she said.

    Alale said though, using strong password was desirable, it was also important to use two or multi-factors authentication system as it comprises two or more layered protection.

    She advised users to desist from connecting into the public network.

    “Internet users are counselled to connect to secured and trusted or private networks, if possible, especially when handling financial or any sensitive transaction.

    “On data management, users are informed to back up their data periodically.

    “It is very crucial to back up your data, remember malicious threats and hackers do not always want to steal just your data.

    “But sometimes, the game plan is to encrypt or erase it to either cause you harm or lead to ransom seeking,’’ she said.

    Alale said that cybersecurity awareness had become imperative and was in line with the Ministry of Communication and Digital Economy vision.

    “Think before you click; clicking on the wrong link could cost you dearly,’’ she said.

    According to her, malicious links can do damage in several ways.

    “So, the public is asked to be sure to inspect links and ensure that they are from trusted senders before clicking,’’ Alale said.

    She also advised users to update connected systems regularly to keep software protected from bugs and other vulnerability.

    Alale urged internet users to endeavour to use good antivirus software and firewall solution.

  • Reps set to unravel alleged massive fraud ongoing in NIGCOMSAT

    Reps set to unravel alleged massive fraud ongoing in NIGCOMSAT

    While the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr Isa Ali Pantami was holding a virtual meeting with Chief Executive Officers under his Ministry, including with Dr. Abimbola Alale, the Managing Director of NIGCOMSAT, members of the House of Representatives were setting in motion forensic probe of activities of the operators of the Nigerian Communications Satellite systems.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports the House of Representatives on Tuesday mandated the Committees on Information Technology (ICT) and Finance to carry out a forensic audit of the activities of the Nigerian Communications Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) Limited from inception to date and report back within four (4) weeks for further legislative action.

    The mandate followed a motion moved by Rep. Ndudi Elumelu on the need to investigate the alleged sleaze, misappropriation and non-profitability of the Nigerian Communications Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) Limited, which was voted on and adopted, after it was seconded by Rep. Idem Unyime.

    It could be recalled that in 2006 the federal government incorporated the Nigerian Communications Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) Limited with the aim of revolutionizing the information and communications technology system in Nigeria as well as to improve national security, broadcasting, internet access, e-governance, health and the educational sectors of the country.

    Because the vision of NIGCOMSAT was for it to be the leading satellite operator and service provider in Africa, the company in 2007 launched the first geostationary Communications Satellite in Sub-Saharan Africa to exploit the commercial viability of the country’s communications satellite for its socio-economic benefits.

    According to the House, it took the Nigerian government the sum of $340 million of tax payers money to build the NIGCOMSAT-l and a further N43 billion from the federal allocation as running cost and another $127 million as debt servicing to the Chinese Government, but that there is little or nothing to show for these huge investments.

    The House raised concern that while the fixed-satellite service business has proven lucrative in so many countries with a worth estimate of the global space as high as N160.26 trillion and 75% of this coming from commercial revenues, NIGCOMSAT is yet to get a slice of the pie and has generated zero revenue.

    Members of the House were disturbed that even though the company has not been able to make contributions to the nation’s revenue, it has been riddled with series of allegations ranging from contract scam to the tune of N8 billion, to bribery of government agents and withholding of vital documents to ensure the cover-up of the massive irregularities against the management of the company.

    The House was also disturbed that, at a time, a Managing Director of the Company was alleged to have wrongfully declared her assets and signed off the company’s Direct-to-Home (DTH) facility to NIGUS International Investment Ltd (a company owned by the father in law of the Head of DTH) after she acquired shares in NIGUS through proxies.

    The House was worried by the allegations that the management of the company breached government policy on procurement by ensuring that procurement matters are handled strictly between the offices of the Managing Director and that of the Legal Adviser, which is a breach of the country’s financial regulations.

    The House also expressed worry that between September and December 2011, the management of NIGCOMSAT paid Fasaha Intercontinental Insurance Brokers Ltd the sum of N5 billion for insurance premium of the lunch of NIGCOMSAT-1R Satellite which is a non-consultant job that requires the approval of the Federal Executive Council, and according to the House, such unguarded expenditures have made the company unable to meet the financial obligations owed to the nation and if left unchecked, will result in further loss of the nation’s scarce revenue.

    Meanwhile, the House has mandated the Committees on Information Technology (ICT) and Finance to carry out a forensic audit of the activities of the Nigerian Communications Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) Limited from inception to date and report back within four (4) weeks for further legislative action.

    However, while the House was setting the mechanism for the probe in motion, the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy was holding a virtual meeting with Chief Executive Officers under his Ministry, including with Dr. Abimbola Alale, the Managing Director of NIGCOMSAT.

    The meeting discussed the successes recorded so far, which Pantami said have been vindicated by unprecedented contribution of ICT to GDP of 14.07% in the 1st Quarter of 2020; securing telecommunications infrastructure; resolving the challenges of right of way in certain States; free access to certain websites on COVID-19 update; providing digital platforms for MDAs; free text messages on COVID-19 updates to Nigerians.

    Meanwhile, the House Committees on Information Technology (ICT) and Finance were yet to fix a date for the questioning of those involved in the alleged sleaze, misappropriation and non-profitability of the Nigerian Communications Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) Limited.

  • Pantami inaugurates NIGCOMSAT board

    Pantami inaugurates NIGCOMSAT board

    The Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr Isa Pantami, on Friday inaugurated the Nigerian Communication Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) board of directors.

    Inaugurating the board at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja, the minister urged them to work hard and not take their work lightly adding that they should be committed to their duties.

    He also encouraged the directors to cultivate the habit of reading so that they would explore and be up to date.

    “Most importantly, if you are appointed in ICT sector today you can hardly deliver firstly without commitment.

    “Secondly you need to read, you have to be up to date, and you need to learn, unlearn and re-learn, there are certain things you always need to learn.

    “So, it is because of this I encourage all of you to sit properly and understand the assignment and the challenge before us.

    “Partake in reading, reflection and experimenting to see how we can turn things around, that is something that is very critical indeed.

    “You don’t have any time; you are to hit the ground running immediately. We have other things we are working on in order improve NIGCOMSAT.

    “We are trying to make sure that NIGCOMSAT is not only competitive in Nigeria, but in Africa and Asia. I challenge you to try to turn things around,” he said.

    In his remarks, the Board Chairman, Mr Yusuf Kazaure, expressed delight and gratitude for the opportunity and support to be of service to the agency.

    Kazaure said that the vision of NIGCOMSAT was compelling, adding that it was something that would bring unity and make it part of the drive to achieve a digital economy in the country.

    He explained that satellite was inevitably necessary for a large country such as Nigeria and Communication continues to be something so important that one cannot do without.

    He promised to work with the ambitious targets by the minister using satellite and creating the necessary partnership with other agencies within and outside the agency.

    News Agency of Nigeria reports that other directors sworn in were: Mr Hadi Mohammed, Mr Abdu Bambale and Dr Najeem Salaam.

  • Nigeria to acquire critical satellite based augmentation system equipment

    Nigeria to acquire critical satellite based augmentation system equipment

    Adamu Idris, Head of Public Affairs Department at Nigerian Communications Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) has said the country would acquire critical Satellite Based Augmentation System (SBAS) equipment under an agreement with a French company, Thales Alenia Space.

    TheNewsGuru (TNG) reports the NIGCOMSAT Head of Public Affairs Department disclosed this in a statement on Monday in Abuja, revealing Nigeria has signed a cooperative agreement with Thales Alenia Space in Toulouse, France, to partner on testing of NigComSat-1R payload.

    He explained that “under the agreement, NIGCOMSAT would acquire critical SBAS equipment worth about 400,000 (four hundred thousand Euros), over N165 million, free from Thales, including utilization of NIGCOMSAT services and knowledge transfer.

    He stated that the agreement was aimed at demonstrating the capability of NigComSat-1R payload for SBAS.

    He noted that “Thales Alenia Space Company is the foremost satellite manufacturing company with specialization in satellite payloads and satellite equipment with over 50 percent of the world market share in satellite payloads manufacturing.

    NIGCOMSAT Ltd is a satellite communication service provider wholly owned by Federal Government of Nigeria, providing secure communication services in Nigeria, Africa and beyond.

    He said that the signing of the agreement and cooperative agreement between NIGCOMSAT Ltd and Thales Alenia Space took place at the Thales Alenia Space Head office in Toulouse, France.

    He added that “this came on the heels of negotiations and final agreement between the two parties.”

    According to him, the successful testing of NigComSat-1R payload on Thales Alenia facility is to boost business opportunities.

    He noted that the agreement was to address navigation and maritime safety in Africa, in collaboration with other stakeholders in Africa.

    Idris said that the Executive Director, Engineering Services, Kazeem Raji, led the NIGCOMSAT delegation.

    Raji added that the agreement was a platform that would kick-start collaboration between NIGCOMSAT and Thales Alenia Space toward establishing the capacity of NIGCOMSAT Navigation Payload.

    The executive director added that the agreement toward the utilization of the navigation payload of NigComSat-1R would improve Navigation and Maritime safety across Africa and beyond.

    He noted that “by this development, Nigeria would eventually be established as centre for navigation and maritime safety in Africa.”

    Bennoit Brody, the Vice President of Satellite Navigation Business Unit of Thales Alenia Space, said that the agreement would open a floodgate to demonstrate the capacity of NigComSat-1R navigation payload and that of Thales Alenia Space.

    Brody said that the agreement would finally create potential business opportunities in navigation safety in Africa.

    Idris said that NIGCOMSAT delegation while in Toulouse visited the Assembly Integration and Testing (AIT) Complex of Thales Alenia Space.

    The capacity of Thales Alenia Space in satellite manufacturing and several technological advances in communication satellite models were presented for other possible areas of cooperation.

     

  • Inability to achieve 30% broadband penetration in Nigeria raises concern

    Nigerian Communication Satellite Ltd. (NIGCOMSAT) has expressed concern over inability to achieve its earlier intended 30 per cent broadband penetration to ease internet access in the country.

    Mr Muhammad Jiya, the satellite company’s Senior Manager in the Department of Innovation and Development, expressed the concern on Thursday in an interview in Abuja.

    It would be recalled that the Minister of Communications, Adebayo Shittu in 2016 said that the country would achieve 30 per cent national broadband penetration by the end of 2018 as projected in the country’s National Broadband Plan.

    Shittu then said that the country had so far achieved between 18 to 20 per cent penetration as a result of private sector initiatives.

    Jiya identified that internet accessibility and connectivity was a huge challenge to many citizens, especially in remote areas.

    According to him, the higher broadband will ensure that those remote areas without access can be reached.

    He added that “not being able to achieve the 30 per cent broadband penetration is a source of concern to us because we need data for the economy and what drives data is connectivity.

    “If we cannot achieve 30 per cent broadband penetration, it is a big challenge but we at least need to get closer to that.

    “If we cannot move closer to that, we hope that government will put more emphasis in ensuring that we go beyond the 30 per cent, which will help us a great deal.”

    However, the Nigerian Communication Commission (NCC) saddled with working toward the attainment of the broadband in November said the country could not achieve the 30 per cent broadband.

    The NCC said that the country’s broadband penetration was presently 23 per cent and was stalled with high Right of Way (RoW) charges and multiple taxation from some institutions and state governments, among other challenges.