NCC to use satellite technology to expand mobile coverage to 23.3 million Nigerians

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced plans to leverage satellite technology to extend mobile network coverage to an estimated 23.3 million Nigerians who remain underserved by existing terrestrial networks.

The initiative will deploy satellite-to-phone services, also known as direct-to-device or direct-to-cell connectivity, which enable standard smartphones to connect directly to satellites for voice calls, text messages, and data services without the need for traditional cell towers.

According to the NCC, the move is aimed at bridging persistent connectivity gaps in remote and hard-to-reach communities where the deployment of terrestrial infrastructure is either difficult or economically unviable. The Commission noted that millions of Nigerians, particularly in rural areas, still lack reliable access to mobile communication services.

By adopting satellite-based connectivity, the NCC said it hopes to accelerate progress toward universal access to telecommunications services, improve digital inclusion, and support socio-economic development across the country.

The Commission added that the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s broader digital economy agenda and ongoing efforts to ensure that no community is left behind in Nigeria’s telecommunications expansion.