Reps task FG to safeguard $400m Nigeria’s orbital slots

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The House of Representatives on Tuesday tasked the Federal Government to ensure timely registration and renewal of Nigeria’s orbital slots with a view to averting the loss of $400 million worth of investment in the industry.

The resolution was passed sequel to the adoption of a motion sponsored by Hon. Tolani Shagaya, who solicited for the intervention of the House.

In the bid to avert future occurrences, the lawmakers underscored the need for the present administration to establish an oversight mechanism to monitor progress regarding the utilisation of orbital slots and ensure compliance with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) regulations.

In his lead debate, Hon. Shagaya observed that Nigeria has been granted three orbital slots by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), essential for satellite placement in geostationary orbit.

“These slots are vital for telecommunication, broadcasting, weather monitoring, and national defence purposes.

“The House also notes that presently, just one of these slots is utilised through NigComSat-1, leaving the other two vulnerable to reassignment if left unused by the deadline of December 6, 2024.

“The House further notes that the expense of acquiring a new orbital slot is approximately $200 million USD, and the loss of these slots would not only result in a significant financial loss but also impede Nigeria’s technological progress and economic development.

“The House is aware that numerous factors contribute to the underutilisation of these slots, such as financial limitations, inadequate technical infrastructure, and delays in policy implementation.

“The House is also aware that the critical significance of these orbital slots goes beyond technological progress to include national security, disaster response, connectivity, and navigation capabilities.

“The House is concerned over Nigeria’s increasing competition with other countries for orbital slots, driven by the rising global demand for satellite services, which could lead to the permanent forfeiture of Nigeria’s assigned positions.

“The House acknowledges that it is imperative for Nigeria to expedite satellite development processes, secure
necessary funding and explore partnerships with private companies and international space agencies to
fully utilise these orbital slots.

“The House recognises that protecting Nigeria’s orbital slots goes beyond technical aspects; it is a critical element for national security, economic empowerment, and global standing. It is crucial to optimise the use of
these slots to establish Nigeria as a significant player in the ever-changing space sector.”

The House further urged Nigeria Communications Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT) and the National
Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) to intensify efforts in developing and launching satellites that will occupy our slots to prevent their forfeiture.

To this end, the House mandated the Committee on Digital and Communications Technology to conduct a comprehensive review of Nigeria’s current utilisation of its orbital slots and report within two weeks.

In the same vein, the House mandated the joint Committees on Digital and Communications Technology and Legislative Compliance to ensure compliance.

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