The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has launched a six-week public consultation to gather stakeholder input on the possible rollout of Satellite Direct-to-Device (D2D) connectivity in the country, a move that could significantly alter the delivery of mobile communication services beyond conventional terrestrial networks.
According to the Commission, recent breakthroughs in satellite and non-terrestrial network technologies now allow mobile devices to connect directly to satellites, opening new possibilities for expanding coverage, improving network resilience, and advancing digital inclusion across Nigeria.
In a public notice issued in Abuja, Aminu Maida, NCC’s Executive Vice Chairman, stated that D2D technology could serve as a complementary layer to existing mobile networks.
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He explained that it has the potential to reach communities currently without adequate service, offer alternative connectivity during network failures, and enhance nationwide emergency communication capabilities.
The Commission disclosed that its interest in satellite D2D connectivity is informed by findings from the 2024 cluster gap study, which revealed the existence of 87 connectivity clusters impacting approximately 23.37 million Nigerians.
The initiative is also aligned with ongoing global discussions ahead of the World Radio Communication Conference scheduled for 2027.
Acting under its statutory authority as provided in Section 71 of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003, the NCC is inviting contributions from industry players and the general public on how such services could be introduced and regulated in Nigeria.
Stakeholders are encouraged to assess how emerging satellite technologies alongside airborne platforms in some cases—could integrate with the country’s existing telecommunications infrastructure.
Maida noted that current D2D solutions are evolving in two main directions: one that relies on specialized devices operating within Mobile-Satellite Service (MSS) spectrum, and another that allows standard, unmodified smartphones to connect directly to satellites using frequencies traditionally reserved for terrestrial mobile networks.
The consultation period will remain open until February 23, 2026, and is accessible to telecom operators, consumers, government institutions, international bodies, and civil society organisations. Feedback received during this process will inform the Commission’s eventual regulatory decisions.
The NCC emphasized that any future policy framework for D2D connectivity must carefully balance innovation with market stability.
It must promote universal service access while safeguarding continued investment in terrestrial infrastructure, ensuring efficient spectrum use, fair competition, consumer protection, and outcomes that align with Nigeria’s national interest.
