Kwara Rep Shagaya pushes for action on orbital slots to enhance Nigeria’s technological advancement
Muktar Shagaya, the Representative for Ilorin West/Ada constituency, advocated for urgent measures to safeguard Nigeria’s orbital slots, noting the potential financial loss of up to $400 million if action is not taken.
Currently, Nigeria is allocated three orbital slots, but only one is actively utilized through NigComSat-1.
The remaining two slots face the risk of reassignment due to a looming deadline of December 6, 2024, unless they are put to use.
Shagaya emphasized that acquiring a new orbital slot would cost the nation approximately $200 million.
Shagaya expressed that the loss of these slots would not only pose a significant financial setback but also impede Nigeria’s technological progress and economic growth.
During his address, he urged the Federal Government to take decisive action to prioritize the protection and full utilization of the nation’s orbital slots.
He called for increased investment in satellite technology to meet the impending deadline, alongside advocating for the timely registration and renewal of Nigeria’s orbital slots.
Additionally, he stressed the importance of implementing an oversight mechanism to monitor progress closely and ensure compliance with the regulations set by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).
In a positive development, the House unanimously supported Shagaya’s motion, which has now been referred to the Committee on Digital and Communications Technology for further deliberation and action.
The committee has been tasked with conducting a thorough review of Nigeria’s current usage of its orbital slots and reporting back within two weeks.
