The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has revealed plans to implement a satellite-to-phone technology aimed at providing mobile network access to approximately 23.3 million Nigerians who are currently outside the coverage of conventional terrestrial networks.
This initiative is part of the NCC’s larger strategy to bridge Nigeria’s digital connectivity divide, particularly in rural, remote, and hard-to-reach areas where constructing traditional base stations is either prohibitively expensive or logistically challenging.
The NCC stated on Tuesday that the initiative will utilize satellite technology, enabling standard smartphones to connect directly to satellites for voice calls, text messages, and data services without the need for nearby cell towers.
This method, referred to as satellite-to-phone or direct-to-device connectivity, is being increasingly considered worldwide as a viable solution to last-mile connectivity issues.
With satellite-to-phone connectivity, mobile devices can communicate directly with low-earth orbit satellites, bypassing the need for ground-based infrastructure.
This technology allows users in areas lacking mobile towers to send messages, make emergency calls, and access basic data services, as long as their phones are compatible and the service is activated by network providers.
The NCC clarified that this technology is not meant to replace existing mobile networks in urban areas but rather to complement them by addressing coverage gaps.
Affected communities include riverine regions, mountainous areas, border settlements, and sparsely populated rural locations that have historically faced poor or nonexistent network access.
Industry experts suggest that direct-to-device satellite services could greatly enhance emergency communications, financial inclusion, access to digital education, and telemedicine in underserved regions.
The telecom regulator has consistently emphasized the need for universal service coverage as part of Nigeria’s digital economy strategy.
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Despite steady growth in mobile penetration over the years, millions of Nigerians still lack reliable access to voice and data services due to infrastructure challenges.
By embracing satellite-based solutions, the NCC believes that operators can overcome persistent obstacles such as difficult terrain, security issues, and high deployment costs.
The commission plans to collaborate closely with licensed operators, satellite service providers, and other stakeholders to create regulatory frameworks and initiate pilot projects.
While specific timelines and partners have not been announced, the NCC indicated that this plan aligns with global trends, where regulators are increasingly approving direct-to-cell satellite services to support national connectivity objectives.
The announcement has generated discussions on social media, with many Nigerians expressing their support for the initiative as a long-awaited development.
