Work trips aren’t often described as tasty, but my visits to Bangkok and Beijing were exactly that – a whirlwind of flavours, culture and revelations about the transformative power of communication satellites.
Let’s start with the food (because how could I not?). Bangkok’s shrimp fried rice was poetry on a plate, bursting with flavours I never knew I needed. Beijing, in the chill of winter, introduced me to dumplings so comforting, they felt like a warm hug after a long day. But I didn’t just return with a full belly; I came back inspired and reinvigorated by what satellite technology can do for sustainable development in Nigeria and Africa.
Between mouthwatering meals and exploring vibrant cultures, my visits to Thaicom in Thailand and CAST and CGWIC in China were enlightening. These organisations aren’t merely operating satellites – they’re redefining possibilities.
At Thaicom, I saw a company that transitioned from a state-owned entity into a publicly traded leader in satellite services. Its formula for success? A harmonious blend of innovation, customer focus, and robust government partnerships that prioritize national interests while enabling growth. With transparency in governmental oversight, strategic revenue streams in broadband and broadcasting and a clear commitment to economic development, Thaicom offers a blueprint worth emulating.
China, on the other hand, showcased a centralised and coordinated ecosystem. CAST is a hub of research and innovation, while CGWIC serves as its global arm, connecting China’s satellite expertise to the world. Together, they operate under the umbrella of the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC), a tightly aligned machine of state-driven research, commercialisation and profitability. It’s a testament to the power of synergy, structured roles and strategic foresight.
Reflecting on these experiences, my thoughts naturally turn to Nigeria and our journey with NigComSat-1R – a groundbreaking achievement in our history. This satellite has the potential to become a lasting legacy if fully supported and optimised. Imagine the possibilities:
- Broadband for All: Affordable, high-speed internet reaching even the remotest villages, empowering communities with tools for connectivity and development.
- Job Creation: Skilled engineers, researchers, and entrepreneurs building a robust space industry.
- Solutions for Modern Challenges: Satellites enhancing security, telemedicine, navigation, agriculture, education and disaster management.
This is not just about technology; it’s about empowerment. It’s about transformation. It’s about shaping a future where Nigeria leads on the global stage. As we often say in local parlance, “Naija no dey carry last!”
Investing in communication satellites isn’t cheap, but the potential for profitability is immense. Countries like Thailand, Bangladesh (with Bangabandhu-1) and India (through ISRO) demonstrate the transformative potential of satellite industries. Nigeria can achieve similar success by adopting a forward-thinking strategy.
At NigComSat, we are committed to this vision. Guided by principles of transparency, creative innovation, and global competitiveness, we have revitalised our infrastructure and focused on stakeholder engagement. Here are ways Nigeria can lead in space technology:
- Policy Support: Strong policies to protect local operators, encourage innovation, and build a sustainable ecosystem.
- Smart Financing: Utilise public-private partnerships, sovereign bonds, IPOs and regional collaborations to fund satellite projects.
- Revenue Innovation: Leverage R&D to develop income streams in broadband, broadcasting and transformative sectors like agriculture and education.
- Capacity Building: Train world-class engineers, technicians and finance experts to reduce reliance on foreign expertise.
- Thriving Ecosystem: Foster an eco-friendly environment to attract global investors.
- Strategic Partnerships: Collaborate with global experts to replicate models like NLNG in oil and gas for the satellite sector.
The blueprint is simple: invest in people, enact strong policies, embrace global collaboration and cultivate an enabling ecosystem. With the right approach, Nigeria can become a formidable force in the satellite industry.
Ultimately, my time in Bangkok and Beijing wasn’t just about shrimp fried rice or dumplings (though they were unforgettable). It was about witnessing how nations use communication satellites to propel themselves forward – and imagining how Nigeria can replicate that success.
The future of satellite technology goes beyond orbiting hardware. It’s about creating a real impact on Earth – solving problems, creating value, and empowering people. Nigeria has the talent, ambition, and drive. What we need now is unwavering commitment and bold action to make it happen.
So, I leave you with this question: If satellites could solve one problem in your community, what would it be?
Tonye wrote in from the Nigeria Communications Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) Ltd, Abuja.
