Nigeria Plans Satellite Mobile Coverage for 23.3 Million Underserved Citizens
Abuja, Nigeria – January 20, 2026
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced plans to leverage satellite technology to expand mobile connectivity to an estimated 23.3 million Nigerians who currently remain underserved by terrestrial networks.
The initiative will deploy satellite-to-phone services, also known as direct-to-device (D2D) or direct-to-cell connectivity. This technology enables standard smartphones to connect directly to satellites for voice calls, text messaging, and mobile data, bypassing the need for traditional cell towers.
“This is a transformative step in bridging the digital divide in Nigeria,” said an NCC spokesperson. “Millions of Nigerians in remote and rural areas will now have reliable access to mobile communication services, which are critical for economic development, education, and emergency response.”
Satellite mobile connectivity is particularly valuable in areas where building terrestrial infrastructure is challenging due to geography, cost, or logistical constraints. By connecting directly to satellites, residents in hard-to-reach regions will be able to access mobile networks without the delays or gaps associated with conventional tower-based systems.
The NCC has stated that it is working closely with satellite service providers to ensure a seamless rollout, with pilots expected in selected regions before broader nationwide deployment.
Experts believe the adoption of satellite-to-phone services in Nigeria could serve as a model for other African countries facing similar connectivity challenges, helping to drive digital inclusion across the continent.
