Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The Nigerian Communication Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) Ltd and the Kenyan Space Agency have initiated discussion aimed at fostering strategic collaboration in space technology, with a particular focus on leveraging services provided by NIGCOMSAT Ltd. This was contained in a statement signed by Stephen Kwande, Ag. Head, Corporate Affairs Dept.
During a courtesy visit to NIGCOMSAT’s Ground Control facility in Abuja, the Managing Director of NIGCOMSAT Ltd, Mrs. Jane Nkechi Egerton-Idehen warmly welcomed the Director General of KSA, Brigadier (Rtd.) Hillary Kipkosgey. She expressed appreciation for KSA’s interest in partnering with NIGCOMSAT, describing it as a significant step toward advancing Africa’s space industry.
“Nigeria’s investment in the space sector was driven by visionary leadership that recognized the potential of space technology to grow our economy, build a robust ecosystem, and attract global investors’. According to Mrs. Egerton-Idehen, “I believe this collaboration can help address critical issues such as national security, sustainability, and sovereignty.”
She emphasized the importance of African nations taking an active role in shaping the future of space policy and innovation. “From Morocco to Egypt, Kenya to South Africa, Nigeria, and now Angola—Africa must claim its seat at the table. Not because it was handed to us, but because we have earned it through decades of dedication and leadership in this sector.”
The Managing Director, Chief Executive Officer, NIGCOMSAT Ltd, also said, Nigeria’s leadership in space development through agencies like Nigerian Space Research Development Agency (NASRDA), Nigerian Communications Satellite (NIGCOMSAT), and Defence Space Agency (DSA), and expressed her enthusiasm for extending that leadership across the continent. “This next phase is pivotal. True progress will come when we move forward together.”
Responding, Brigadier Kipkosgey noted that the purpose of the visit was to understand NIGCOMSAT’s service offerings and explore potential areas of collaboration, similar to engagements with NASRDA and DSA. “We are here to build a closer working relationship with our Nigerian counterparts,” he said.
He lamented the limited frequency of interaction among African space agencies, which typically meet only once a year. “To achieve meaningful progress, we need deeper engagement and more frequent dialogue. One-on-one discussions like this are essential to forging productive partnerships and driving the continent’s space ambitions forward.”
The Kenyan Space Agency operates under the Ministry of Defence and comprises a substantial number of civilian staff, reflecting its commitment to inclusive and strategic development in the space sector.
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