Weekly Recap
Jane Egerton-Idehen
MD/CEO, Nigerian Communications Satellite Ltd (NIGCOMSAT) || Board Member || Author || Angel Investor
The past two weeks have been a time of real momentum and growth for NIGERIAN COMMUNICATIONS SATELLITE LIMITED (NIGCOMSAT) and the broader Nigerian satellite industry. With the launch of the first-ever Nigerian Satellite Week, we saw a wave of activities that underscored the expanding role of satellite technology in Nigeria’s digital future. The media appearances, the strategic meetings, the much-anticipated Nigcomsat Accelerator Demo Day, Each event took us further in transforming key areas like communication, agriculture, national security and more, showing how satellite technology is steadily advancing Nigeria’s development. Here’s a look back at the highlights that made these weeks both memorable and impactful.
We began last week by going live on Good Morning Nigeria on the NTA- Nigerian Television Authority , where I was joined by the Executive Director of Technical Services, Engr. Abiodun Attah , and my Technical Adviser, Temitope Yoosuf . Together, we delved into NIGCOMSAT’s journey of transformation, focusing on how satellite technology is advancing sectors like communication, infrastructure, and security for national development. It was also an opportunity to celebrate our achievements over the past year and to emphasize satellite technology’s pivotal role in driving Nigeria’s digital economy.
Following that, I had a meaningful discussion with Brig. Gen. YD Ahmed, Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), on how NIGCOMSAT's satellite capabilities can streamline NYSC processes. From automating deployments to enhancing real-time communication between headquarters and youth corps members in remote areas, satellite technology has the potential to significantly improve the NYSC’s operational efficiency. It’s inspiring to see the impact of satellite technology, even in sectors not typically associated with space!
On Tuesday, the momentum continued as our team—Head of Sales Ibiye Ukoko and Kingsley Udevbure —joined AIT Live's Kaakaki program to discuss NIGCOMSAT’s transformation journey. We shared our commitment to driving innovation and digital inclusion through NigComSat-1R satellite solutions, illustrating how our services are contributing to Nigeria’s digital future.
Nigerian Satellite Week day 2: Press Day
Wednesday marked a major milestone with the official launch of Nigerian Satellite Week. The day kicked off with a press conference, setting the stage for insightful discussions on satellite technology’s role in Nigeria’s digital landscape. From improving connectivity in rural areas to boosting agricultural productivity, the transformative potential of satellite technology took center stage. One key takeaway was clear: when the public and private sectors work together, innovation thrives. I deeply appreciated the presence of everyone who attended, including Engr. Abiodun Attah , Executive Director of Technical Services; Adama Akure, Executive Director of Finance; and Timothy Ashong , Director-General of RASCOM. We were also grateful for the strong media presence from @NTA- Nigerian Television Authority, Channels TV, Vanguard, and The Guardian, among others, for amplifying these messages.
Lecture at the Nigerian Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers’ Fellowship Conferment Ceremony
Later that evening, I had the honor of delivering a lecture at the Nigerian Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers’ Fellowship Conferment Ceremony. My talk, "Championing Innovation: A Look at Digital Transformation and Economic Diversification in Nigeria," gave me a chance to reflect on how emerging technologies can drive sustainable growth and economic diversification. It was also a personal moment of gratitude for the guidance of industry giants like Engr. Isaac Adekanye and Engr. Abba, without whom I wouldn’t be here. To all who’ve paved the way—thank you.
Nigerian Satellite Week day 2: Stakeholders' Forum
On Thursday, Day 2 of Nigerian Satellite Week continued with the Stakeholders’ Forum, bringing together industry leaders, government officials, and key stakeholders to explore the sustainable development potential of satellite communications. The energy in the room was palpable as we exchanged perspectives on how satellite technology can accelerate Nigeria’s progress in areas like security, education, and infrastructure.
Nigerian Satellite Week day 3: Accelerator Demo Day
By Friday, excitement peaked with Day 3—the Nigcomsat Accelerator Demo Day! After months of hard work, space-tech startups in our accelerator program pitched their innovative solutions to a panel of judges. It was truly inspiring to see these startups, tackling real-world issues across sectors like healthcare, agritech, energy, and climate change, showcase how their solutions can shape Nigeria’s future. After an intense round of pitches, the top three winners emerged:
A heartfelt thanks to all our startups—Kitovu Technology Company, Agrify, Moon Innovations, eHealth 360, Agroxchange Technology Services Ltd, Plotogo Digital Ltd, Vora Robotics Ltd, Rural Farmers Hub, Ndandan.ai Research, CarbonEx , FroNet Wireless, and Betalife Health Service —along with our esteemed panelists, speakers, and dignitaries from the Ministry of Innovation, NITDA Nigeria , SMEDAN , NIPOST, and the Nigerian Communications Commission. Special appreciation goes to the remarkable Cohort-1 startups for their inspiring work in healthcare, agritech, education, and energy.
Nigerian Satellite Week day 3: Awards and Gala Night
On Friday night, we wrapped up the week with an Awards and Gala Night dedicated to honoring the remarkable contributions of NIGCOMSAT staff, our amazing customers, and organizations advancing satellite technology in Nigeria. These awardees exemplify innovation, leadership, and a commitment to expanding possibilities in the space sector. Their work strengthens Nigeria’s presence in satellite communications and sets the stage for advancements in connectivity, agriculture, and national security. The gala also served as the ideal setting to unveil my one-year scorecard, providing transparency on our journey so far, our achievements, and where we are headed in the coming year.
Celebration of Nigeria’s 21st year in space
On Saturday, I attended the Lecture and Awards Ceremony organized by the Nigerian Institute of Space Engineers (NISE) in celebration of Nigeria’s 21st year in space. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo delivered an inspiring speech, underscoring the need for policy effectiveness in driving development, especially in space technology. His reminder that progress requires decisive action deeply resonated with me. Later, I sat on a panel, sharing insights on Nigeria’s potential for rapid technological advancement and the progress being made in digitalization to position Nigeria as a key player on the global technology stage.
EFCC National Summit on Cybercrime
This Tuesday, I was honored to represent the Honourable Minister for Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy at the EFCC National Summit on Cybercrime, held at the Banquet Hall in Aso Villa. The theme, "Alternative to Cybercrime: Optimizing Cyber Skills for National Development," addressed the critical need for cybersecurity in today’s digital world. We commend the EFCC’s relentless efforts to curb cybercrime and highlight the importance of responsible digital conduct. Technology and ICT have created vast opportunities, but addressing cybercrime is essential to protect these gains.
Many talented Nigerian youths have technical skills that, unfortunately, are sometimes misused in financial crimes and other harmful activities. It’s imperative we redirect these skills toward productive paths that contribute to national growth. The launch of the E-News C2R2 EFCC Rapid Response Centre was a significant step in this fight against cybercrime, and it was a privilege to stand alongside distinguished dignitaries, including Her Excellency Oluremi Tinubu, CON, OON, Dr. Aminu Maida, His Majesty Obi of Onicha Ugochukwu Achebe, the Sultan of Sokoto, Archbishop Daniel Okoh of the Christian Association of Nigeria, EFCC Chair Danladi, and other esteemed guests.
NIGCOMSAT Staff Training
Our commitment to advancing satellite technology and maintaining excellence begins with the expertise and growth of our people. This week, we dedicated ourselves to organizing comprehensive training for NIGCOMSAT's staff, understanding that upskilling is foundational to our success. With new technologies and demands emerging in the satellite industry, these sessions are designed to equip our teams with essential tools, knowledge, and skills to drive innovation, improve efficiency, and prepare for future challenges.
The culmination of Nigerian Satellite Week hat the Awards and Gala Night underscored just how far we’ve come in positioning Nigeria as a leader in satellite technology. This journey has shown that innovation thrives on collaboration, vision, and dedication. Looking ahead, I am filled with optimism as we continue to leverage satellite technology for economic growth and national development. This is just the beginning, and the future of Nigeria's space sector holds even greater promise.
CSWP || Mechanical Design Enthusiast || Mechanical Engineering student ||Chevron Scholar || FEA || SPE Volunteer
1moIt is a privilege to be a contributor to this event NIGERIAN COMMUNICATIONS SATELLITE LIMITED (NIGCOMSAT) and thank you, Jane Egerton-Idehen for the opportunity
Director, Africa at Eagsyne
1moThe Satellite week was such a necessity. Saw the works of many young folk. We need more of it. A valuable help to initiate and fan the flame of space innovation. Great work as always, Jane.