The Federal Government has approved the procurement of two new communication satellites as part of a renewed push to strengthen Nigeria’s digital infrastructure and support President Bola Tinubu’s ambition of building a $1 trillion economy.
The approval was announced on Wednesday by Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, during a press briefing in Abuja to mark Global Privacy Day 2026, organised by the Nigerian Data Protection Commission (NDPC).
According to the minister, the move represents a major shift in Nigeria’s digital strategy, particularly in addressing gaps in national connectivity. He noted that, unlike several other West African countries, Nigeria currently does not have operational communication satellites, a shortfall that the new assets are expected to correct.
“Mr President has made it clear that digital technology will be central to driving inclusive economic growth,” Tijani said. “He has now approved the procurement of two new satellites to strengthen our communications capacity.”
The minister explained that satellite infrastructure is critical to expanding broadband access, especially in underserved and hard-to-reach areas, while also supporting sectors such as education, healthcare, security and commerce.
Tijani also provided an update on the government’s 90,000-kilometre fibre-optic backbone project, aimed at extending high-speed internet connectivity across the country. He disclosed that about 60 per cent of the project has been completed, with funding already secured to deliver the remaining phases.
Beyond infrastructure expansion, the minister stressed the importance of data protection and digital trust, noting that connectivity growth must be matched by strong safeguards for citizens’ data.
“As more Nigerians come online, trust, safety and privacy must remain at the core of our digital transformation,” Tijani said, adding that robust data protection is essential to sustaining a resilient digital economy.
The satellite approval and fibre-optic rollout form part of the government’s broader digital economy agenda, aimed at accelerating innovation, boosting productivity and positioning Nigeria as a leading digital hub in Africa.
