The Need To Procure 2 Satellites For NigComSat -Shittu
The Federal Government has announced plans to purchase two additional satellites for Nigeria Communication Satellite (NigComSat) to cost $550m.
Minister of Communications, Mr. Adebayo Shittu, disclosed this after the 4th National Council on Communication Technology meeting in Kaduna.
He said the government was already negotiating with China EXIM Bank to purchase the two additional satellites for storage of data.
This will complement the existing NigComSat to reach areas that cannot be covered by terrestrial fibre, according to him.
“We need just about $550m to acquire two new satellites; we are already negotiating with China EXIM Bank. They assured us that they will deliver the money. Once this done, whatever data is stored in one satellite will equally be shared by the two or three satellites. With that, there will be enough data collection centre and there will be reliability.”
The minister said once there is adequate backup, all government institutions, agencies and ministries must necessarily patronise NigComSat. He said a lot of the country’s money was being exported out to sustain other economy through data storage.
FG To Intensify Radio Spectrum Monitoring -Shittu
Shittu also said government intends to secure state-of-the-art mobile equipment to enable the detection, location and blocking of illegal users of spectrum.
“Effective radio spectrum monitoring would assist with intelligence gathering. It will also support the security agencies in enhancing security and safety of citizens and the nation in general.”
The minister also pointed out that government is setting the proper policy and strategic environment for ICT development in the country. According to him, investments in ICT infrastructure will extend connectivity to unserved and underserved areas.
He further stated that attention will be paid to the issue of multiple taxation of ICT infrastructure.
“We are working to have ICT infrastructure designated as Critical National Infrastructure. We are also working to make more investments in building the capacity and harnessing the talents of our youth.”
