Renew Nigeria’s orbital slot to avert $400m loss, Reps tells FG

On Tuesday, the House of Representatives urged the Federal Government to promptly renew Nigeria’s two orbital slots allocated by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) to avoid a potential financial loss of $400 million. This appeal followed the passage of a motion titled “Need to safeguard Nigeria’s orbital slots to prevent potential financial loss of $400m to Nigeria,” introduced by Mr. Tolani Shagaya, the representative for Ilorin West/Asa Federal Constituency in Kwara State.

The ITU has granted Nigeria three orbital slots for satellite positioning in geostationary orbit, which are crucial for telecommunications, broadcasting, weather monitoring, and national security, among other applications.

Shagaya emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that currently, only one slot is in use through NigComSat-1, leaving the other two at risk of being reassigned if not utilized by the December 6, 2024 deadline. He pointed out that acquiring a new orbital slot could cost around $200 million, and losing these slots would not only lead to substantial financial setbacks but also hinder Nigeria’s technological advancement and economic growth.

He attributed the underutilization of these slots to various factors, including financial constraints, insufficient technical infrastructure, and delays in policy execution. Shagaya also highlighted that the significance of these slots extends beyond technological benefits to encompass national security, disaster response, and navigation capabilities. He warned that increasing global demand for satellite services could result in Nigeria permanently losing its assigned positions.

It is essential, he stated, for Nigeria to accelerate its satellite development initiatives, secure adequate funding, and pursue partnerships with private firms and international space organizations to fully leverage these orbital slots.

Following the motion’s approval, the House called on the Federal Government to prioritize the safeguarding of Nigeria’s orbital slots and invest in satellite technology to ensure comprehensive utilization before the impending deadline.

Additionally, the House recommended timely registration and renewal of Nigeria’s orbital slots and the establishment of an oversight mechanism to monitor progress in their utilization in line with ITU regulations. They urged Nigeria Communications Satellite Limited and the National Space Research and Development Agency to enhance efforts in developing and launching satellites to occupy these slots and prevent their loss.

The House also tasked its Committee on Digital and Communications Technology with conducting a thorough review of Nigeria’s current use of its orbital slots and reporting back within two weeks for further legislative action.