The Defence Headquarters, Nigeria Police Force, and other key security agencies have partnered with the Nigerian Communications Satellite Ltd to deploy satellite technology in addressing the country’s pressing security issues.

The collaboration was highlighted during the launch of the second phase of the NigComSat Accelerator Programme, which took place in Abuja on Wednesday.

The event saw the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, and the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, underline the importance of space technology in combating Nigeria’s growing security challenges.

Musa, represented by Air Vice Marshal Vincent Aguiyi, the Chief of Defence Transformation and Innovation at the Defence Headquarters, noted that satellite assets would play a crucial role in military operations aimed at tackling insurgents, terrorists, kidnappers, and other criminal groups threatening national stability.

“For the Armed Forces of Nigeria, this (NigComSat event) translates to an opportunity to deepen partnerships with innovators who can help build tools and systems that enhance national resilience and security,” Musa said.

He also praised the focus on Artificial Intelligence, space technology, and digital transformation, emphasising that these areas are fundamental to the future of Nigeria’s defence and security architecture.

“I am particularly pleased with the emphasis on AI, space technology, and digital transformation. These areas are critical domains that will define the future of our defence and security architecture,” he continued.

“As threats become more asymmetric and complex, our responses must be more intelligent, data-driven, and adaptive. Therefore, our Investments in innovation must be seen not just as economic initiatives but as strategic imperatives. In this regard, the Armed Forces of Nigeria reaffirms its readiness to collaborate with technology-based enterprises, research institutions, and industry leaders in the co-creation of solutions that will help secure our borders, protect our national assets, and promote peace and stability across the country.”

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, represented by Police Commissioner Ahmed Sule, who oversees Digital Innovation and Cybersecurity, stressed the significance of deploying digital solutions for intelligence gathering, security mapping, and tracking criminal activities.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive of NigComSat, Mrs Jane Egerton-Idehen, also addressed the gathering, stressing that Nigeria must not be left behind in the race towards the global space economy, which is projected to reach $1tn.

“In today’s digital economy, space is no longer a distant frontier. It is a domain of opportunity, anchoring everything from precision agriculture and environmental monitoring to disaster management, national security, fintech, and connectivity.

“NIGCOMSAT, as Nigeria’s foremost satellite communications company, stands at the intersection of technology and transformation. We are committed to building a vibrant space-tech economy that does not just serve us today but powers our collective aspirations for tomorrow,” Egerton-Idehen said.

She described the NigComSat Accelerator Programme as a pivotal milestone aimed at unlocking Nigeria’s space-tech potential and nurturing a local ecosystem driven by innovation and entrepreneurship.

The NigComSat boss noted, “This is why the Accelerator Programme was born, to create a launchpad for Nigerian startups, engineers, data scientists, and innovators who dare to dream beyond Earth’s boundaries.

“As the world races toward a $1tn global space economy, Africa must take its place, not just as a consumer, but as a creator of space-based solutions. Nigeria, with its large youth population, robust tech talent, and expanding digital infrastructure, is uniquely positioned to lead this charge.”

She also emphasised the importance of investing in ideas, talent, and systems that can convert raw potential into scalable innovation.