Guard Against Nigeria’s Loss Of $400m Orbital Slots, Reps Ask FG

The House of Representatives has urged the federal government to prioritise the protection of Nigeria’s orbital slots and investment in satellite technology to ensure the full utilisation of Nigeria’s allocated orbital slots before the impending deadline to avert  loss of $400 million to the country.

This was sequel to the adoption of a motion moved by Hon. Muktar Tolani Shagaya from Kwara state at plenary on Tuesday.

Moving the motion, the lawmaker noted that Nigeria has been granted three orbital slots by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), essential for satellite placement in geostationary orbit.

According to him, these slots were vital for telecommunication, broadcasting, weather monitoring, and national defence purposes.

Shagaya said presently, just one of these slots is utilised through NigComSat-1, leaving the other two vulnerable to reassignment if left unused by the deadline of December 6, 2024.

He stated that the expense of acquiring a new orbital slot is approximately $200 million USD, and the loss of these slots would not only result in a significant financial loss but also impede Nigeria’s technological progress and economic development.

The lawmaker observed that: “numerous factors contribute to the underutilisation of these slots, such as financial limitations, inadequate technical infrastructure, and delays in policy implementation.

“The critical significance of these orbital slots goes beyond technological progress to include national security, disaster response, connectivity, and navigation capabilities.”

He expressed concern over Nigeria’s increasing competition with other countries for orbital slots, driven by the rising global demand for satellite services, which could lead to the permanent forfeiture of Nigeria’s assigned positions.

“It is imperative for Nigeria to expedite satellite development processes, secure necessary funding, and explore partnerships with private companies and international space agencies to fully utilise these orbital slots.

“Protecting Nigeria’s orbital slots goes beyond technical aspects; it is a critical element for national security, economic empowerment, and global standing. It is crucial to optimise the use of these slots to establish Nigeria as a significant player in the ever-changing space sector,” Shagaya said.

On adoption of the motion, the House urged the Federal Government to ensure timely registration and renewal of Nigeria’s orbital slots and establish an oversight mechanism to monitor progress regarding the utilisation of orbital slots and ensure compliance with ITU regulations.

It also asked the Nigeria Communications Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT) and the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) to intensify efforts in developing and launching satellites that will occupy our slots to prevent their forfeiture.