The Federal Government has approved the purchase of two new communication satellites to strengthen Nigeria’s digital infrastructure and support President Bola Tinubu’s ambition of building a one-trillion dollar economy. The Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, announced the decision in Abuja during a press briefing to mark Global Privacy Day 2026, organised by the Nigerian Data Protection Commission.
Tijani described the approval as a major shift in Nigeria’s digital strategy, noting that the country currently lacks operational communication satellites, unlike several West African peers. The new satellites are expected to close this gap and significantly improve national connectivity. He stressed that the president has placed digital technology at the centre of economic growth and competitiveness.
The minister also gave an update on the ongoing 90,000 kilometre fibre optic backbone project, saying about 60 percent has been completed, with funding secured for the rest. He added that expanded connectivity must be matched with strong data protection to sustain trust in Nigeria’s growing digital economy.
