Confirming Nigeria’s plans to expand its satellite resources, telecommunications and technology giant Thales Alenia Space says it has won a contract to build the NigComSat-2A geostationary telecommunications satellite.
An undertaking of the state-owned enterprise Nigeria Communications Satellite Limited (NigComSat), the communications satellite, called NigComSat-2A, is set to strengthen Africa’s digital connectivity. It will deliver reliable and secure communications services, including high-quality television broadcasting, fast and stable internet access, even in remote areas, and modern digital applications like voice calls and streaming.
The satellite will also expand access of digital services in underserved and remote communities, while supporting the growing connectivity needs of African households, businesses, public institutions and industries.
By improving access to reliable broadband and communications infrastructure, says Thales, NigComSat-2A will contribute to greater digital inclusion, economic opportunity, knowledge sharing and access to information across the continent.
With a launch mass of nearly four tons, NigComSat-2A will cover the region extending from West and Central Africa to Southern Africa. The satellite will provide greater flexibility and resilience to Africa’s communications infrastructure, supporting the continent’s rapidly growing digital economy and the increasing demand for connectivity in areas where terrestrial networks remain limited or difficult to deploy.
Its expected operational in-orbit service life exceeds 15 years. The Thales Alenia Space-built satellite will be based on the company’s Spacebus B2 platform.
