The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is pushing for the adoption of Satellite Direct-to-Device (D2D) connectivity as a response to persistent coverage gaps affecting an estimated 23.3 million Nigerians who remain underserved by mobile networks.
This is according to a consultation paper published on the Commission’s website, where the regulator outlined the underlying reasons for embracing satellite-enabled direct mobile connectivity.
The paper shows that the NCC’s interest in D2D services is driven by evidence from national connectivity assessments, evolving technology trends, and the limitations of relying solely on terrestrial infrastructure to achieve universal access.
According to the Commission, advances in satellite and non-terrestrial network technologies now make it possible for mobile devices to connect directly to satellites, creating new opportunities to extend coverage, and improve service continuity.
The NCC said its inclination toward Satellite D2D connectivity is guided by its statutory responsibility to ensure accessible, reliable, and efficient communications services across Nigeria.
“Findings from the Commission’s 2024 cluster gap study conducted by the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF), which identified 87 clusters affecting approximately 23.37 million people, highlight areas where connectivity challenges persist and where multiple solutions may be relevant,” it said.
The Commission added that achieving national connectivity objectives may require a combination of approaches deployed in ways that are appropriate to specific use cases, locations, and operational conditions, rather than dependence on a single network model.
The NCC said it is seeking stakeholder input on how such services can be introduced in a way that supports universal access while safeguarding competition, spectrum efficiency, and consumer protection.
NCC said this would also help the regulator in its assessment of potential spectrum demand, coexistence, and authorization considerations, ahead of any regulatory framework for Satellite D2D connectivity.
The consultation paper builds on earlier policy signals that point to a stronger role for satellite services in Nigeria’s communications strategy.
In December, the NCC signalled a major policy shift toward satellite-powered mobile connectivity, positioning Direct-to-Device services as a key technology for expanding coverage between 2025 and 2030.
Satellite Direct-to-Device connectivity is gaining increasing regulatory attention globally as technology blurs the line between satellite and mobile services.
The NCC said it is aligning with international developments, including ongoing studies at the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) ahead of the World Radiocommunication Conference 2027.
These studies are examining possible new spectrum allocations to enable direct connectivity between satellites and standard mobile devices to complement terrestrial coverage.