Thales Alenia Space, a joint venture between Thales (67%) and Leonardo (33%), has signed a contract with Nigeria’s government-owned NIGCOMSAT Ltd to develop a new telecommunications satellite operating from geostationary orbit.
The communications satellite, named as NigComSat-2A, is set to strengthen Africa’s digital connectivity. It will deliver reliable and secure communication services, including high-quality television broadcasting, fast and stable internet access even in remote areas, and modern digital applications like voice calls and streaming.
The satellite will also expand access of digital services in underserved and remote communities, while supporting the growing connectivity needs of African households, businesses, public institutions and industries.
By improving access to reliable broadband and communications infrastructure, NigComSat-2A will contribute to greater digital inclusion, economic opportunity, knowledge sharing and access to information across the continent.
With a launch mass of nearly 4 tons, NigComSat-2A will cover the region extending from West and Central Africa to Southern Africa. The satellite will provide greater flexibility and resilience to Africa’s communications infrastructure, supporting the continent’s rapidly growing digital economy and the increasing demand for connectivity in areas where terrestrial networks remain limited or difficult to deploy.
Its expected operational in-orbit service life exceeds 15 years. The Thales Alenia Space-built satellite will be based on the company’s Spacebus B2 platform.
“The signing of this contract represents a bold step in Nigeria’s journey toward digital transformation,” stated Nkechi Jane Egerton-Idehen, Managing Director / Chief Executive Officer of NIGCOMSAT. “NigComSat-2A will not only strengthen our nation’s satellite communications capacity but also expand access to reliable broadband and digital services for millions of Africans, especially in underserved and remote communities. This project underscores NIGCOMSAT’s commitment to driving connectivity, fostering innovation, and enabling economic growth across the continent. We are proud to partner with Thales Alenia Space in delivering a satellite that will empower Africa’s digital future.” “I would like to thank NIGCOMSAT for placing their trust in our company,” stated Hervé Derrey, President and CEO of Thales Alenia Space. “NigComSat-2A geostationary satellite will enable NIGCOMSAT to strengthen its competitive position by delivering reliable, high-quality services that meet the growing demand for connectivity and digital content worldwide. This announcement also underscores the success of our Spacebus B2 product line, renowned for its reliability, robustness and time-to-market efficiency”.
