NCC is pushing Satellite Direct-to-Device Connectivity to Bridge Nigeria’s Mobile Coverage Gap.
NewsOnline Nigeria reports that the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has proposed the adoption of Satellite Direct-to-Device (D2D) connectivity as a solution to persistent mobile network coverage gaps affecting about 23.3 million Nigerians.
The proposal is contained in a consultation paper published on the Commission’s website, where the regulator outlined the rationale for embracing satellite-enabled direct mobile connectivity to complement existing terrestrial networks.
According to the NCC, its growing interest in D2D services is informed by national connectivity assessments, rapid technological advancements, and the limitations of relying solely on ground-based infrastructure to achieve universal access.
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The Commission noted that recent advances in satellite and non-terrestrial network technologies now allow standard mobile devices to connect directly to satellites, opening up new opportunities to expand coverage, enhance service continuity, and improve access in hard-to-reach areas.
Explaining its position, the NCC said the move aligns with its statutory mandate to ensure accessible, reliable, and efficient communications services across Nigeria.
It cited findings from the 2024 cluster gap study conducted by the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF), which identified 87 coverage clusters affecting approximately 23.37 million people nationwide.
“These findings highlight areas where connectivity challenges persist and where multiple solutions may be required,” the Commission said, adding that achieving national connectivity goals would likely depend on a mix of network models tailored to specific locations, use cases, and operational conditions.
As part of the process, the NCC has invited industry stakeholders to provide input on how Satellite D2D services can be deployed in a way that promotes universal access while protecting competition, spectrum efficiency, and consumer interests.
The consultation, which commenced on January 12, 2026, seeks evidence-based submissions on potential use cases, benefits, risks, and public-interest considerations of D2D services in Nigeria. Stakeholders are also expected to share views on suitable technologies, network architectures, deployment requirements, and expected performance levels.
The NCC said the feedback would guide its assessment of spectrum demand, coexistence issues, and authorization considerations ahead of any formal regulatory framework for Satellite Direct-to-Device connectivity.
The consultation paper builds on earlier policy signals pointing to an expanded role for satellite services in Nigeria’s communications strategy. In December, the Commission indicated a policy shift toward satellite-powered mobile connectivity in its draft Spectrum Roadmap for the Communications Sector (2025–2030), identifying D2D services as a key technology for expanding coverage over the next five years.
The move followed Airtel Africa’s announcement of a strategic partnership with SpaceX to deliver Starlink-powered direct-to-cell services in Nigeria and other Airtel markets.
According to the NCC, non-terrestrial networks are increasingly being positioned as critical complements to traditional mobile infrastructure, particularly in a country where challenging terrain, security concerns, and high deployment costs have left millions without adequate connectivity.
The Commission added that it is aligning its approach with global regulatory trends, including ongoing studies at the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) ahead of the World Radiocommunication Conference 2027, which are exploring new spectrum options to support direct satellite-to-mobile connectivity.
