NASRDA Signs Landmark MoU with Chinese Firm Galaxy Space to Launch Direct-to-Device Satellite Connectivity in Nigeria
In a major leap toward enhancing digital inclusion, the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with leading Chinese satellite firm, Galaxy Space. The agreement will facilitate the deployment of Direct-to-Device (D2D) satellite communication technology across Nigeria, particularly targeting rural and underserved communities.
Galaxy Space is globally recognized for its innovation in designing and mass-producing low-cost Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites that deliver commercial broadband internet. The partnership marks a significant step for Nigeria as it embraces cutting-edge satellite infrastructure to address connectivity challenges in remote areas.
Bridging the Digital Divide with D2D Satellite Technology
During the official signing ceremony held in Abuja on Wednesday, NASRDA’s Director-General, Dr. Matthew Adepoju, described the partnership as a milestone in Nigeria’s technological advancement.
“With this collaboration, Nigeria is embracing the future of communication—direct satellite connectivity without reliance on traditional terrestrial infrastructure like cell towers,” Adepoju stated.
He explained that with D2D satellite communication, smartphones, laptops, and digital workstations will be able to connect directly to satellites, offering seamless connectivity even in regions with no cellular coverage.
The rollout is expected to commence before the end of 2025. Adepoju emphasized that the technology will significantly reduce network blind spots, drive digital inclusion, and expand access to critical online services such as education, banking, health, and government services.
A Push for Indigenous Tech Development
Beyond improving connectivity, the partnership with Galaxy Space aims to provide Nigerian engineers with hands-on training and exposure to space technologies, fostering technology transfer and capacity building.
“It is time Nigeria stopped depending entirely on imported tech devices. We must begin to develop and produce some of these technologies locally,” Adepoju stressed.
Galaxy Space representative, Mr. Sam Xiao, praised NASRDA for its visionary leadership and revealed the company’s intention to initiate a joint project to develop a CubeSat—miniaturized satellites used for space research. Nigerian engineers will be actively involved in the design, assembly, and management of the satellite.
Mr. Xiao further noted that Nigeria could serve as a launchpad for deploying D2D technology across other African nations, underscoring the strategic importance of the collaboration.
Why This Matters
D2D satellite technology allows everyday mobile devices to connect directly to satellites without requiring physical infrastructure like base stations or fiber-optic cables. This is a game-changing solution for countries like Nigeria, where millions of people in remote regions remain cut off from reliable internet access.
The partnership positions Nigeria ahead in the race to deliver direct satellite communication. While tech giants like Elon Musk’s Starlink are also developing similar capabilities, their direct-to-cell services are still limited to six countries, including the U.S. and Canada, with no rollout date yet for Nigeria.
The Bigger Picture
NASRDA’s move aligns with broader national goals to boost local innovation, expand digital infrastructure, and reduce dependency on imported technologies. The agency has recently stepped up youth training initiatives in the space sector and expressed interest in sending Nigerian citizens to space.
This MoU not only opens doors to better communication infrastructure but also sets the stage for Nigeria’s emergence as a regional leader in satellite technology and space-based innovation.
As Nigeria gears up for full deployment of the D2D system, industry stakeholders are optimistic that the partnership with Galaxy Space will catalyze technological growth, drive foreign investment, and help build a more connected and inclusive digital future.
Stay tuned for further updates as Nigeria prepares for its most ambitious leap yet into space-driven communication.
