- Nigeria is set to leverage satellite technology in addressing pressing security issues
- Managing Director of Nigeria Communications Satellite Ltd (NigComSat) Jane Egerton-Idehen disclosed collaborations with national security agencies to enhance Nigeria's security framework
- The procurement process for Satellite 2 is gaining momentum as part of Nigeria's satellite expansion efforts according to Jane Egerton-Idehen
The Managing Director of the Nigeria Communications Satellite Ltd (NigComSat), Mrs. Jane Egerton-Idehen, revealed that Nigeria is now leveraging all of its satellite assets to fight against terrorists, bandits, and kidnappers.
The Managing Director made this statement during a media conference in Abuja on Wednesday, October 16, ahead of Satellite Week, emphasising that the agency aims to reveal the transformative potential of satellite technology for Nigeria and facilitate meaningful progress across various sectors.
Egerton-Idehen emphasises teamwork with security forces to ensure peace nationwide
“We are collaborating with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), Defence Intelligence and Space Administration, the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and other stakeholders on the utilisation of Communications Satellite and Assets to ensure peace throughout the country,” Egerton-Idehen stated.
She explained that this implies the nation’s security challenges could be addressed in the near future.
Mrs Egerton-Idehen, who refrained from disclosing specific details of the deployment due to security concerns, mentioned that there are ongoing collaborations with the nation's security managers to develop lasting solutions to the country's security challenges.
She explained that the collaborations involve enhancing connectivity in remote areas, with various technology platforms being deployed for multiple assignments.
Nigeria to lead West Africa in satellite technology and security, Egerton-Idehen
“I cannot provide details of our collaborations, but it’s all-encompassing and the goal is to secure Nigeria. Very few countries have the kind of assets that we have, especially in the West African sub-region. We have started a journey to provide leadership in the region, and we will surely get there,” Egerton-Idehen stated.
While speaking about Satellite Week, Mrs Egerton-Idehen said, “This event marks a pivotal moment for Nigeria’s satellite and space industry as we gather here to explore how communication satellites can be the driving force behind our nation’s sustainable development via diverse industries and initiatives.”
She noted that the Nigerian Satellite Week is being organised to unite stakeholders and capitalise on the vast opportunities within the satellite industry.
Egerton-Idehen praises Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for satellite progress
The Managing Director mentioned that since her appointment, NigComSat TV channels have increased from approximately 45 to 105, and the viewer base has escalated from two million to seven million.
Egerton-Idehen mentioned that Nigeria has not given up on its efforts to procure Satellite 2 in space, highlighting that the process is picking up momentum and will be completed as soon as possible.
Speaking further, she praised President Bola Tinubu for implementing the Renewed Hope Agenda, emphasising that the backing from the president and the Minister of Communications, Innovations and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, has greatly impacted the Satellite Communications industry.
Nigerian Air Force reportedly strikes Boko Haram, claims major success
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that Nigerian Air Force units executed airstrikes in the Arina area of Southern Tumbuns, Borno state.
Intelligence reports indicated that five commanders and 35 of their soldiers were either critically wounded or entirely eliminated.