Nigeria Moves to Bypass Towers with Satellite Deal

Nigeria has taken a bold step towards future-proofing its digital communication infrastructure through a new satellite deal. The National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Galaxy Space, a leading Chinese satellite company, to roll out Direct-to-Device (D2D) satellite technology across the country.

D2D communication allows mobile phones, laptops, and digital tools to connect straight to satellites—no telecom towers needed. According to NASRDA’s Director-General, Dr. Matthew Adepoju, this initiative marks a turning point in Nigeria’s quest to close the connectivity gap, especially in underserved areas.

“Nigeria is embracing the future of communication—direct satellite connectivity without reliance on traditional terrestrial infrastructure like cell towers,” he explained.

D2D to Power Inclusion and Local Innovation

Full deployment of the new D2D system is expected before the end of 2025. When launched, it could eliminate black spots in rural Nigeria and help millions of people access mobile internet services for the first time.

Dr. Adepoju called on public and private stakeholders to get involved, especially in sectors like banking, governance, and education where consistent digital access is essential.

Beyond the infrastructure shift, the agreement also opens the door to local tech growth. Galaxy Space plans to train Nigerian engineers to co-design and operate a CubeSat—a miniaturised satellite.

The hope is to move from being technology consumers to becoming producers, reducing Nigeria’s dependence on imported hardware.

“We must begin to develop and produce some of these technologies locally,” said Dr. Adepoju.

Partnership Could Anchor Satellite Rollout Across Africa

Galaxy Space, known for building mass-market low-earth-orbit (LEO) satellites, sees Nigeria as a potential springboard for expanding the D2D system throughout Africa.

“Nigeria could serve as a launchpad for satellite-based communication technology across the continent,” said Mr. Sam Xiao, a Galaxy Space representative.

He also expressed interest in a joint CubeSat mission, where Nigerian teams would not only design and manufacture the satellite, but also take charge of its operations.

This aligns with Nigeria’s larger space-tech ambitions and could set the stage for more inclusive, efficient, and resilient digital networks that aren’t tied to outdated infrastructure.