Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The Nigerian Communications Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) Ltd has concluded arrangements to launch the second phase of its Accelerator Program to take place on July 18, 2025, in Abuja. This was contained in a statement signed by Aisha Bantam, Head, Corporate Affairs Department, NIGCOMSAT Ltd which reads in part: “This flagship initiative is designed to support startups leveraging satellite and space-related technologies to address both local and global challenges across key sectors.
“With the theme “Innovation in Orbit: Empowering the Next Generation of Space-Tech Entrepreneurs,” the 2025 cohort will focus on catalysing innovation in agriculture, healthcare, climate resilience, education, robotics, logistics, and digital infrastructure. The programme aims to foster collaboration among industry leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs, propelling Nigeria’s digital economy into a new era”.
Speaking on the upcoming launch, Mrs. Maureen Nzekwe, Programme Coordinator, revealed that the first cohort attracted 281 applications, with 35 startups selected to advance to the final stage in October 2025. She also noted the increased participation of female-led startups, reflecting NIGCOMSAT’s strong commitment to gender inclusion and empowering women in science, technology, and innovation.
In her remarks, Mrs. Jane Nkechi Egerton-Idehen, Managing Director/CEO of NIGCOMSAT Ltd, highlighted the programme’s strategic importance: “Placing space technology in the hands of Nigeria’s brightest innovators is a bold step towards sustainable national development. This accelerator is not only a platform for nurturing viable tech solutions but also a catalyst for redefining Nigeria’s role in the global space economy,” she stated.
The statement further stated that the programme officially begins with onboarding on June 20, 2025, followed by an intensive series of capacity-building workshops, mentorship sessions, product refinement and business development activities, culminating in investor matchmaking opportunities.
A major highlight will be the Demo Day in October, where selected startups will pitch their solutions to a diverse audience of investors, policymakers, and global stakeholders—offering a critical platform for visibility, partnerships, and potential funding.
The NIGCOMSAT Accelerator Programme is implemented in collaboration with strategic partners, including the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), private sector experts, investors, and innovation ecosystem builders. Together, these partnerships position the programme as a national launchpad for cutting-edge ideas and entrepreneurial growth within Nigeria’s emerging space-tech landscape.
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