NCC Signals Shift to Direct-to-Mobile Satellite Connectivity in 2025–2030 Spectrum Roadmap

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has signalled a significant policy shift toward satellite-powered mobile connectivity, positioning Direct-to-Device (D2D) satellite services as a key technology for expanding nationwide coverage between 2025 and 2030.

The move is outlined in the Commission’s draft Spectrum Roadmap for the Communications Sector (2025–2030), which sets the strategic direction for spectrum management, technology adoption, and infrastructure development across Nigeria’s telecoms industry.

The policy direction comes weeks after Airtel Africa announced a strategic agreement with SpaceX to deploy Starlink-powered direct-to-cell services in Nigeria and other Airtel operating markets—signalling growing momentum for satellite-mobile convergence across Africa.

NCC positions satellite networks as complement to mobile infrastructure

In the roadmap, the NCC identifies non-terrestrial networks (NTNs) as a critical complement to traditional mobile infrastructure, particularly in regions where terrestrial deployment is limited by geography, insecurity, or high rollout costs.

According to the regulator, Direct-to-Device satellite technology enables voice and data services to be delivered directly to standard mobile phones, without relying on ground-based cell towers.

“In Nigeria, D2D connectivity could play a transformative role by extending voice and data coverage to signal blackspots, vast rural, riverine, and border communities currently beyond the reach of mobile towers,” the NCC stated.

The Commission added that satellite-based connectivity could also improve network resilience, serving as a fallback during fibre cuts, power outages, or emergencies that disrupt terrestrial networks.

Beyond consumers: public safety, IoT, and smart agriculture

Beyond consumer mobile services, the NCC said the adoption of D2D satellite connectivity could support public safety communications, disaster response, Internet of Things (IoT) deployments, and smart agriculture, particularly in underserved areas.

The roadmap also highlights new investment and partnership opportunities, noting that collaboration between mobile network operators (MNOs) and satellite providers could improve efficiency through shared spectrum usage and more flexible licensing models.

Focus on LEO satellites, GEO systems, and high-altitude platforms

The NCC’s strategy places strong emphasis on Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites as a tool for closing Nigeria’s broadband gap.

According to the document, LEO systems are expected to deliver high-speed internet to some of the country’s most remote locations, potentially connecting millions of Nigerians who currently lack reliable broadband access.

In addition to LEO constellations such as Starlink, the Commission said it plans to optimize the use of Geostationary Orbit (GEO) satellites and explore high-altitude platform systems, including stratospheric balloons.

These technologies could support mobile backhaul services and extend connectivity to areas where deploying fibre or mobile towers is economically unviable.

Why it matters

Nigeria remains home to one of the world’s largest unconnected populations, with rural broadband penetration significantly lagging urban areas, despite years of investment in fibre networks and mobile infrastructure.

By formally recognising D2D services, LEO satellites, and other non-terrestrial networks in its spectrum roadmap, the NCC is laying the regulatory foundation for faster and more cost-effective universal access.

For telecom operators, supportive regulation could accelerate the commercial rollout of satellite-backed mobile services, reduce coverage gaps, and improve overall network reliability. For consumers, it could mean better connectivity in remote communities, improved emergency communications, and access to new digital services across agriculture, logistics, and public safety.

What to know

Airtel Africa recently announced an agreement with SpaceX to deploy Starlink direct-to-cell services across multiple African markets, including Nigeria.

Nigeria already hosts licensed satellite broadband operators, with Starlink’s presence increasing competition in the broadband market.

The NCC’s Spectrum Roadmap (2025–2030) is expected to guide future spectrum auctions, licensing frameworks, and technology adoption across the telecoms sector.

Industry analysts anticipate closer collaboration between MNOs and satellite firms as Nigeria works toward its national broadband and digital economy targets.