Thales Alenia Space, a joint venture between Thales (67%) and Leonardo (33%), has signed a contract with the Nigerian state-owned company NigComSat Ltd to develop a new telecommunications satellite that will operate in geostationary orbit.
The new communications satellite, named NigComSat-2A, will help strengthen digital connectivity across Africa. It will provide reliable and secure communication services, including high-quality television, fast and stable internet access—even in remote areas—and state-of-the-art digital services such as voice calls and streaming content.
NigComSat-2A will also expand access to digital services in remote and currently underserved communities, while meeting the growing need for connectivity among households, businesses, public institutions, and industries across the continent.
By improving access to reliable broadband and communications infrastructure, the satellite will help drive digital inclusion, create new economic opportunities, foster knowledge exchange, and facilitate access to information in Africa.
With a launch mass of approximately four tons, NigComSat-2A will provide coverage extending from West and Central Africa to the southern part of the continent. The satellite will offer greater flexibility and resilience to African communications infrastructure, supporting the rapid growth of the digital economy and the ever-increasing demand for connectivity, particularly in regions where terrestrial networks remain limited or difficult to deploy.
Built by Thales Alenia Space, NigComSat-2A will have an expected in-orbit lifespan of over 15 years and will be based on the company’s Spacebus B2 platform. “The signing of this contract marks a decisive step in Nigeria’s digital transformation process. NigComSat-2A will not only strengthen our country’s satellite communications capabilities but also enable millions of Africans—especially those living in remote communities or areas with limited coverage—to access reliable digital and broadband services. This project reflects NigComSat’s commitment to developing connectivity, driving innovation, and creating opportunities for economic growth across the continent. We are proud to collaborate with Thales Alenia Space to bring to life a satellite that will help build Africa’s digital future,”
stated Nkechi Jane Egerton-Idehen, CEO of NigComSat.
Hervé Derrey, President and CEO of Thales Alenia Space, added:
“I would like to thank NigComSat for the trust placed in our company. The NigComSat-2A geostationary satellite will enable NigComSat to strengthen its competitive position through reliable, high-quality services capable of meeting the growing global demand for connectivity and digital content. This contract also highlights the success of our Spacebus B2 product line, recognized for its reliability, robustness, and efficient delivery schedules.”
Source: Thales Alenia Space
