The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has initiated a six-week public consultation to gather input from industry stakeholders on the potential introduction of Satellite Direct-to-Device (D2D) connectivity in Nigeria, marking a significant step toward diversifying the nation’s telecom infrastructure.
In a public notice issued by the Commission, Dr. Aminu Maida, the executive vice chairman, highlighted that advances in satellite and non-terrestrial network technologies now make it feasible for mobile devices to connect directly to satellites or airborne platforms without relying solely on traditional terrestrial networks.
These developments, the NCC believes, could reshape how mobile communication services are delivered across the country.
According to the NCC, the consultation, running until 23 February 2026, aims to solicit views from telecom operators, consumers, government agencies, civil society groups, international organisations and other interested parties on the opportunities, challenges, and regulatory considerations related to D2D services.
Feedback received will inform the Commission’s eventual regulatory framework under Section 71 of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003.
Dr. Maida explained that Satellite Direct-to-Device services could complement existing mobile networks by extending coverage to unserved and underserved areas, improving network resilience during terrestrial outages, and bolstering emergency communications nationwide.
The move is also aligned with broader goals around digital inclusion, innovation, and economic development.
The consultation follows insights from the NCC’s 2024 cluster gap study, which identified 87 clusters affecting approximately 23.37 million Nigerians living in areas with weak or no connectivity, underscoring the need for innovative solutions beyond conventional infrastructure.
Emerging Direct-to-Device services are evolving along two main approaches: one involves bespoke devices operating on Mobile Satellite Service (MSS) spectrum, while another enables unmodified mobile phones to connect directly to satellites using spectrum traditionally allocated to terrestrial mobile operators.
While the consultancy phase does not in itself determine future policy outcomes, the Commission emphasised that any regulatory framework must strike a balance between fostering innovation and ensuring market stability, preserving incentives for continued investment in terrestrial networks, and safeguarding consumer interests, fair competition, efficient spectrum management and national priorities.
The NCC’s engagement reflects the growing global interest in hybrid terrestrial-satellite connectivity models as regulators and industry players explore ways to close persistent connectivity gaps and enhance service quality for users in remote and underserved regions
