Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced plans to leverage satellite technology to expand mobile coverage to an estimated 23.3 million Nigerians who currently remain underserved by terrestrial networks, Channel TV has reported.
According to a consultation paper published on the NCC’s website, the initiative aims to address persistent connectivity gaps highlighted in the Commission’s 2024 cluster gap study, which identified 87 clusters with limited service.
The NCC said it is inviting stakeholders to provide input on how satellite direct-to-device (D2D) services—also called direct-to-cell or satellite-to-phone technology—can be deployed effectively while ensuring competition, spectrum efficiency, and consumer protection.
Satellite-to-phone services allow standard smartphones to connect directly to satellites for calls, texts, and data without relying on terrestrial cell towers, providing a solution for remote areas where traditional infrastructure is challenging 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 stated. “Evidence-based stakeholder input will help shape regulatory frameworks, spectrum allocation, and network deployment strategies for satellite D2D services in Nigeria.”
The Commission’s plans align with its 2025–2030 Spectrum Roadmap, which identifies non-terrestrial networks as a strategic complement to existing mobile infrastructure.
Industry developments, such as Airtel Africa’s recent partnership with SpaceX to deliver Starlink-powered direct-to-cell services in Nigeria, highlight the growing role of satellite technology in bridging the nation’s connectivity gap.
The consultation, which opened on 12 January 2026, will guide decisions on suitable technologies, performance standards, and operational considerations to ensure satellite services support universal access goals.
Globally, satellite D2D connectivity is gaining traction 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.
In Nigeria, almost half of the population—around 105 million people—live in rural areas with limited or no mobile and internet access. Airtel Africa, including its Nigerian operations, partnered with Starlink in December 2025 to launch direct-to-cell services across 14 markets, starting in 2026 with texting and select data via over 650 satellites. This makes Airtel the first African operator to offer Starlink D2D services, targeting its 59 million Nigerian customers in underserved regions.
The NCC contrasted this approach with traditional infrastructure projects, noting that while MTN-Huawei’s RuralCow initiative reduces returns to three years using solar-powered mini-stations, coverage remains limited. The regulator added, “Satellite direct-to-device services, such as Airtel-Starlink, are emerging as a cheaper way to connect rural blackspots.”
Despite national broadband penetration reaching about 50 percent, 23 million Nigerians remain completely unconnected, leaving 61 percent of rural residents offline. The NCC explained that high costs, dispersed villages, lack of electricity, and limited fiber infrastructure make building traditional base stations expensive, with returns taking 5–10 years.
“Difficult terrain and insecurity slow expansion further, while cities like Lagos get most of the infrastructure,” the Commission said, adding that telecom operators prioritize urban areas for faster returns, even with government support from the Universal Service Provision Fund.
