By Joy Baba-Yesufu
Nigeria’s national satellite operator, Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited, is set to host the second edition of the Nigerian Satellite Week (NSATWK 2026) as part of activities marking two decades of the country’s foray into the space economy.
The event, scheduled for March 30 and 31 in Abuja, is expected to bring together key stakeholders across the satellite and digital infrastructure ecosystem, including policymakers, defence officials, development finance institutions, global satellite operators, and technology startups from across Africa.
A statement signed by Head of Corporate Communications, NIGCOMSAT Stephen Kwande said organisers noted the forum has rapidly evolved into a premier platform for shaping policy, fostering commercial partnerships, and showcasing emerging innovations in satellite technology.
He said the 2026 edition comes at a time when the global satellite industry is undergoing significant transformation, with increased emphasis on sovereign space capabilities as a driver of economic competitiveness.
Since its establishment in 2006, NIGCOMSAT has expanded from a single-satellite operator into a multi-service provider delivering connectivity, broadcasting and broadband services across Nigeria and beyond.
The statement further said that recent milestones include a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) partnership with Eutelsat, strategic cooperation with the Kenya Space Agency, and Nigeria’s growing influence in global satellite governance.
The company’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Jane Egerton-Idehen, who now serves as Vice Chair of the Global Satellite Operators Association, said the anniversary reflects both progress and future ambition.
“Twenty years ago, Nigeria made a sovereign decision to secure its place in space. What we are marking is not just longevity, but the cumulative returns on that decision and the path ahead,” she said.
The event will feature a range of activities designed to highlight the breadth of Nigeria’s satellite ecosystem.
A Startup Demo Day will showcase African deep-tech ventures working across sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, logistics and connectivity, providing them with access to investors and industry leaders.
The Stakeholders Forum will convene senior government and private sector players to discuss regulatory frameworks, infrastructure development and investment opportunities required to scale Nigeria’s satellite economy.
The programme will conclude with a gala night recognising key contributors to the growth of the sector.
A major highlight of the event will be the launch of Accelerator Cohort 3.0, a programme aimed at supporting early-stage companies developing satellite-based solutions