The Nigerian Communications Commission is steering a major policy shift toward satellite-enabled mobile connectivity, prioritizing Direct-to-Device satellite services as a cornerstone for expanding network coverage from 2025 to 2030.
This focus is outlined in the Commission’s draft Spectrum Roadmap for the Communications Sector (2025–2030).
The move follows closely on the heels of Airtel Africa’s strategic partnership with SpaceX to roll out Starlink-powered direct-to-cell services across Nigeria and other Airtel markets.
The NCC’s roadmap highlights non-terrestrial networks as a vital complement to traditional mobile infrastructure, especially in Nigeria, where millions remain underserved due to geographical barriers, security concerns, and high deployment costs.
The Commission notes that D2D satellite services are gaining traction worldwide as an effective method to deliver voice and data directly to standard mobile phones, bypassing the need for ground-based towers.
“In Nigeria, D2D connectivity could play a transformative role by extending voice and data coverage to signal blackspots, vast rural, riverine, and border communities currently beyond the reach of mobile towers.
“It would also strengthen network resilience—serving as a fallback during fibre cuts, power outages, or emergencies that disrupt terrestrial networks,” NCC stated.
The NCC added that D2D technology could boost public safety, enhance disaster response, enable IoT applications, and promote smart agriculture in areas lacking adequate coverage.
The NCC’s roadmap further underscores the role of Low-Earth Orbit satellites in closing Nigeria’s broadband gap.
The document notes that LEO satellites are anticipated to provide high-speed internet to some of Nigeria’s most remote areas, connecting millions who currently lack reliable service.
Alongside LEO systems like Starlink, the NCC plans to optimize Geostationary Orbit satellites and explore emerging high-altitude platforms, including stratospheric balloons.
These technologies aim to support mobile backhaul and expand broadband access to rural and hard-to-reach regions where laying fibre or constructing towers is not economically viable.
Nigeria remains home to one of the world’s largest unconnected populations, with rural broadband penetration still trailing urban areas despite years of fibre and mobile infrastructure investments.
By formally including D2D, LEO satellites, and other non-terrestrial networks in its spectrum roadmap, the NCC is paving the way for faster, more cost-efficient paths to universal connectivity.
For operators, this regulatory support could speed up the commercial deployment of satellite-backed mobile services, shrink coverage gaps, and enhance network reliability across the country.
