From space to smartphones: NCC seeks input on satellite D2D rules
As part of its ongoing efforts to enhance the quality and reach of telecommunications services, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has released a Consultation Paper seeking stakeholders’ input on Satellite Direct-to-Device (D2D) connectivity in Nigeria.
The initiative marks an early step toward developing a regulatory framework for the emerging satellite D2D technology, which enables direct communication between satellites and consumer devices. According to the NCC’s Head of Public Affairs, Mrs. Nnenna Ukoha, the consultation aligns with Section 71 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003, which mandates the Commission to gather views, evidence, and expert opinions before issuing any binding regulations.
Ukoha explained that feedback from stakeholders will help the NCC address critical regulatory considerations such as spectrum usage and coexistence, licensing and authorisation, competition, consumer protection, security concerns, and incentives for long-term investment. She added that the engagement would also give the Commission deeper insight into emerging D2D service models and their potential impact on Nigeria’s communications ecosystem.
The consultation, she noted, is designed to ensure that any eventual regulatory framework is well-informed, proportionate, transparent, and aligned with Nigeria’s market realities. It also seeks evidence-based input on potential use cases, benefits, risks, and broader public-interest issues associated with D2D services.
In addition, the NCC is inviting perspectives on suitable technologies and network architectures, expected performance standards, deployment requirements, spectrum demand, coexistence challenges, and authorisation processes.
Interested stakeholders are encouraged to review the full Consultation Paper, which provides background information, scope, and guiding questions, on the NCC’s website. Responses are to be submitted through the online form provided in the document no later than February 23, 2026.
