The Nigerian Government has chosen Thales Alenia Space, a European spacecraft manufacturer, to develop NigComSat-2A, a new communications satellite for the state-owned NigComSat organization. Designed to deliver a variety of communication services—including television broadcasting, remote internet access, voice calls, and streaming—the satellite will operate from geostationary orbit, covering West, Central, and Southern Africa.
NigComSat-2A, weighing nearly 4 tons and built on the Spacebus B2 platform, is expected to have an operational lifespan of over 15 years. The project aims to enhance Africa’s communication infrastructure, supporting the continent’s growth in the digital economy and addressing the connectivity needs of areas with limited terrestrial network access.
Nkechi Jane Egerton-Idehen, CEO of NigComSat, emphasized the project’s importance for expanding broadband access and fostering economic growth, particularly in underserved communities. The financial specifics of the contract have not been disclosed.
