The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to take swift action in renewing Nigeria’s two orbital slots granted by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) to avoid a potential financial loss of $400 million.
The resolution was reached following the adoption of a motion titled “Need to Safeguard Nigeria’s Orbital Slots to Prevent Potential Financial Loss of $400m to Nigeria,” sponsored by Hon. Tolani Shagaya, who represents the Ilorin West/Asa Federal Constituency of Kwara State.
Hon. Shagaya, while moving the motion, warned that Nigeria’s failure to renew the orbital slots could lead to their reassignment to other countries, resulting in a significant financial loss and a setback for the nation’s telecommunications sector.
“These orbital slots are of immense value to the country’s telecommunications infrastructure and economic development. If lost, Nigeria will face not only financial losses but also challenges in advancing its telecommunication services,” he stated.
Nigeria has been granted three orbital slots by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) for satellite placement in geostationary orbit. These slots are crucial for various sectors, including telecommunications, broadcasting, weather monitoring, and national defense.
The opportunity to occupy these slots positions Nigeria to enhance its technological infrastructure and improve services in critical areas that directly impact national development.
Hon. Shagaya emphasized the significance of the motion, stating, “Currently, only one of these slots is being utilized by NigComSat-1, leaving the remaining two at risk of being reassigned if they are not put to use by the December 6, 2024 deadline.
“Acquiring a new orbital slot costs approximately $200 million, and losing these slots would not only represent a substantial financial setback but also hinder Nigeria’s technological advancement and economic growth.
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“Several factors contribute to the underutilization of these slots, including financial constraints, insufficient technical infrastructure, and delays in policy execution.”
While Highlighting the critical importance of orbital slots, which extend beyond technological advancement to encompass national security, disaster response, and navigation systems, the Kwara lawmaker warned that the increasing global demand for satellite services could result in Nigeria permanently losing its assigned orbital positions.
He emphasized, “Nigeria must urgently accelerate its satellite development efforts, secure adequate funding, and explore collaborations with private sector companies and international space agencies to fully leverage these orbital slots.
“The House acknowledges that safeguarding Nigeria’s orbital slots is not just a technical necessity but a matter of national security, economic advancement, and international prestige.
Maximizing the potential of these slots is vital to positioning Nigeria as a key player in the rapidly evolving global space industry.”
Following the adoption of a motion, the Nigerian House of Representatives has urged the Federal Government to prioritize the protection of Nigeria’s orbital slots and invest in satellite technology. The aim is to ensure the full utilization of Nigeria’s allocated orbital slots before the impending deadline.
Also, the House advised the Federal Government to ensure timely registration and renewal of Nigeria’s orbital slots. Furthermore, it recommended the establishment of an oversight mechanism to monitor progress on the utilization of orbital slots and ensure compliance with ITU regulations.
“The House has also called on the Nigeria Communications Satellite Limited (NigComSat) and the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) to intensify efforts in developing and launching satellites to occupy the country’s orbital slots, ensuring they are not forfeited.
Also, the House mandated its Committee on Digital and Communications Technology to conduct a comprehensive review of Nigeria’s current utilization of these orbital slots, and report back within two weeks for further legislative action.
