NCC to Bridge Connectivity Gap for 23.3m Nigerians with Satellite-to-Phone Technology

In a bid to eliminate “dead zones” across the country, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is leveraging satellite technology to provide mobile services to 23.3 million underserved citizens.

This “direct-to-cell” innovation allows users to make calls and use data in areas where traditional masts are absent.

The NCC’s new roadmap, detailed in a recent consultation paper, seeks to address 87 critical service gaps identified during a comprehensive nationwide study conducted last year.

The NCC said it is seeking input from stakeholders on how satellite direct-to-device services can be deployed effectively while ensuring competition, spectrum efficiency, and consumer protection.

The Commission noted that advances in satellite and non-terrestrial network technologies now make it possible for mobile devices to connect directly to satellites, offering a potential solution for areas where traditional infrastructure is difficult or costly to deploy.

“NCC is exploring a mix of approaches tailored to specific locations and operational conditions to achieve national connectivity objectives,” the consultation paper noted.

It added that evidence-based stakeholder input will help shape regulatory frameworks, spectrum allocation, and network deployment strategies for satellite D2D services in Nigeria.

The initiative follows signals from the NCC’s 2025–2030 Spectrum Roadmap, which identifies non-terrestrial networks as a key complement to existing mobile infrastructure.

Industry developments, including Airtel Africa’s recent agreement with SpaceX to deliver Starlink-powered direct-to-cell services in Nigeria, further underscore the growing role of satellite technology in expanding connectivity.

The regulator said the consultation, which opened on 12 January 2026, will inform decisions on suitable technologies, performance expectations, and operational considerations to ensure satellite services support universal access goals.

Satellite D2D connectivity is attracting increasing attention globally as regulators and operators explore ways to integrate satellite services with mobile networks, particularly in regions where geography, security challenges, and cost have left millions without reliable coverage.