Nigerian Communications Satellite (NIGCOMSAT), which owns and operates the Nigerian communications satellite systems. has announced a strategic partnership with infrastructure and technology company Infratel Africa, to provide connectivity for a major rural infrastructure project in Nigeria.
Precise details and a timetable have not yet been revealed, but the project’s aim is to migrate 100 locations to the NIGCOMSAT-1R Ka-band hub platform, significantly improving rural connectivity.
The partners say that the NIGCOMSAT-1R satellite capacity will facilitate expanded telecom networks and connectivity solutions.
Infratel Africa, a prominent telecommunication infrastructure service provider in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa, is dedicated to connecting unserved and underserved communities to the global digital landscape. The company says it promotes digital inclusivity and equality through its expertise and technology, driving transformational services like agency banking, telemedicine, e-learning, e-government, and solar-based cold rooms.
By leveraging strategic alliances with technical partners, Infratel Africa enhances communication across Africa. This collaboration aims to enhance connectivity in unserved and underserved communities, supporting the Nigerian government’s goal of bridging the digital divide.
As the Ecofin News Agency points out, at March 31 Nigeria had 219.3 million mobile phone subscriptions and 163.8 million internet subscriptions, though multiple SIM ownership means the figures may be a lot lower. Indeed, Ecofin adds, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) revealed in 2022 that nearly 35 million Nigerians lack access to telecommunications services.
This isn’t the only coverage initiative involving NIGCOMSAT in recent months. Late last year, The company was in the news after YahClick, the data solutions subsidiary of the UAE’s flagship satellite solutions provider YahSat, announced a partnership with the Nigertia group to expand broadband penetration in sub-Saharan Africa.
