The Nigeria Communication Satellite Limited (NigComSat), which operates under the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, has recently announced a strategic alliance with Hotspot Network Limited. This collaboration is aimed at bolstering Internet connectivity in numerous rural communities throughout Nigeria that currently lack such access.
As part of this initiative, NigComSat, a state-owned satellite communications provider, will join forces with Hotspot Network to deliver Internet connectivity solutions to remote areas of the country. This was revealed by Jane Egerton-Idehen, the Chief Executive Officer of NigComSat, during a recent public statement.
Egerton-Idehen explained that under the terms of the partnership, NigComSat will be responsible for supplying satellite coverage necessary for the transmission of data to and from the sites operated by Hotspot Network, particularly as Hotspot Network embarks on its rural expansion strategy.
Highlighting the significant gap in Internet connectivity in Nigeria, especially in rural regions, Egerton-Idehen emphasized that this collaboration is expected to provide dependable and cost-effective Internet services to these underserved communities across the nation.
According to a 2023 report from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), broadband Internet penetration in Nigeria is currently around 40% of the population. Egerton-Idehen referenced the Nigerian government’s ambitious goals to increase the country’s broadband penetration to 70% by the end of 2025, as outlined in the National Broadband Plan. The plan also includes objectives to achieve coverage for at least 80% of the Nigerian populace, with a focus on reaching those in underserved and unserved areas, by the conclusion of 2027.
Jane Egerton-Idehen, the CEO of Nigeria Communication Satellite Limited (NigComSat), has reaffirmed the company’s commitment to the Federal Government’s broadband penetration objectives through its recent partnership with Hotspot Network Limited. She expressed confidence that this collaboration will significantly contribute to the expansion of satellite coverage for rural network development. This initiative is anticipated to dramatically reduce the percentage of Nigerians without Internet connectivity from the current 61% to below 20% by the year 2027.
Morenikeji Aniye, the CEO of Hotspot Network Limited, shared her excitement about the partnership with NigComSat. She underscored the importance of their shared goal to connect the millions of Nigerians who are currently without Internet access. Aniye emphasized that by pooling their expertise and resources, both companies are poised to implement innovative solutions that will deliver reliable and affordable Internet access to rural communities. This, she believes, will enable these communities to fully engage with the digital economy and gain access to vital online services.
The collaboration between NigComSat and Hotspot Network Limited is set to kick off without delay. The initial phase of their joint project is scheduled to begin deployment in select rural areas within the next six months.
In addition to this partnership, Egerton-Idehen highlighted the Federal Government’s intention to launch several other initiatives aimed at enhancing nationwide connectivity. Among these is Project 774, a significant undertaking by the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy. This project will be carried out in collaboration with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and other relevant agencies, all working in concert to further bridge the digital divide in Nigeria.
