The Nigeria Defence Headquarters has expressed readiness to partner with Nigerian Communications Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) to maximise Space technology in combating security challenges bedevilling the nation.
The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, noted this on Wednesday at the NIGCOMSAT Accelerator programme, cohort 2, held in Abuja.
NIGCOMSAT is a Nigerian company focused on space-based communication solutions. It’s involved in satellite construction, operation, and the promotion of space-tech innovation through programs like the Accelerator Programme.
This year’s Accelerator Program Launch is themed “Unlocking Nigeria’s Space-Tech Potential: Building an Innovation-Driven Ecosystem”
In his goodwill message, the Chief of Defence, who was represented by Chief of Defense Transformation and Innovation (CDTI), Defense Headquarters, Nkem Aguiyi, lauded the initiative, noting that it’s a practical demonstration of Nigeria’s collective commitment to nurturing indigenous solutions.
According to Musa, it will be an opportunity for the Armed Forces of Nigeria to deepen partnerships with innovators who can help build tools and systems that enhance national resilience and security.
“Defence Headquarters recognises the undeniable link between national security and technological advancement, especially in today’s rapidly evolving global environment.
“Indeed, the adoption of state-of-the-art communication technologies has been central to our operational strategies. From satellite-enabled surveillance and secure military communications to AI-driven threat analysis and remote reconnaissance, our operations increasingly rely on innovations driven by Nigeria’s tech ecosystem.
“This synergy between defence and technology is more crucial than ever, and initiatives like this Accelerator Programme create fertile ground for such collaboration to thrive,” Musa affirmed.
Lauding the vision behind the launch of Nigeria’s first dedicated space-tech accelerator, the Chief of Defence said the step has the potential to harness the creativity and resilience of the youth.
“Many of them (youth) are brimming with ideas yet often lack the institutional support to bring them to life. By creating pathways for these young minds to access mentorship, funding, and technical guidance, NIGCOMSAT is not just accelerating startups but accelerating national progress.
“It is also heartening to note that today’s programme will highlight key elements of Nigeria’s Startup Act and the policy framework guiding innovation in our country. This legal and institutional backing will ensure that the ecosystem being built is sustainable, inclusive, and globally competitive.
“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 said.
Musa added that as threats become more asymmetric and complex, the Forces’ responses must be more intelligent, data-driven, and adaptive, noting that 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,” Musa stated.
Also speaking, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, said the successful deployment and application of satellite communication is pivotal to the mission of the Nigeria Police Force.
Represented by the Force Communication Officer, Nigeria Police Force, Hammed Sule, the IGP congratulated NIGCOMSAT for the vision, which, according to him, will enhance national connectivity, digital inclusion, and security infrastructure.
“It strengthens our operational efficiency in surveillance, real-time communication, emergency coordination, and intelligence-driven policing, especially in areas where terrestrial networks remain inadequate. In an age of evolving security threats, this infrastructure is not only timely but essential.
“As Guest of Honour, I commend this forward-looking achievement and affirm the support of the Nigeria Police Force to Nigeria’s journey in space communication, digital resilience, and innovation-led development,” Egbetokun said.
In her opening address, the Managing Director/CEO, NIGCOMSAT Limited, Jane Nkechi Egerton-Idehen, urged African leaders to invest in ideas, talents and systems that convert raw potential into scalable innovation.
“As the world races toward a $1 trillion 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.
“Through this second phase of the Accelerator Programme, we are scaling impact. We are identifying real-world problems and equipping entrepreneurs with tools, mentorship, funding opportunities, and global exposure to solve them, with space-tech at the core,” Egerton-Idehen noted.
