csrreporters 
The Federal Government has approved the acquisition of two new communication satellites as part of its broader commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s digital infrastructure, expanding nationwide connectivity, and supporting inclusive economic growth.
The approval was announced by the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, during the 2026 Global Privacy Day press briefing organised by the Nigerian Data Protection Commission (NDPC) in Abuja. The initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s vision of building a $1 trillion economy, with digital technology positioned as a key enabler.
The new satellites will help bridge connectivity gaps, particularly in rural and underserved communities, positioning Nigeria to improve access to digital services, boost productivity, and enhance participation in the digital economy. Currently, Nigeria remains the only West African country without active communication satellites, making the approval a strategic step toward regional competitiveness.
Beyond infrastructure, the government continues to invest in digital skills development, rural broadband expansion, and institutional reforms aimed at strengthening data protection and building public trust. The NDPC has been central to these efforts, overseeing a fast-growing data protection ecosystem valued at N16.2 billion, while supporting job creation and investor confidence.
In parallel, progress continues on the 90,000-kilometre national fibre optic backbone project, which has reached 60 percent completion, with funding secured to deliver full nationwide coverage.
The Nigerian Communications Commission has also announced plans to deploy satellite-to-phone connectivity, a solution expected to connect over 23 million Nigerians currently living in areas without reliable mobile coverage.
For micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), these investments translate into improved access to digital tools, e-commerce platforms, financial services, and wider markets. By combining satellite connectivity with strong data protection frameworks, the government aims to create a secure, inclusive, and innovation friendly environment where businesses can scale sustainably.
This initiative reinforces the Federal Government’s commitment to digital inclusion, economic empowerment, and responsible technology adoption ensuring that no community or business is left behind in Nigeria’s digital transformation journey.