By Bavoriat Clara
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) and Nigerian Communications Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) Limited have reaffirmed their commitment to deepen strategic collaboration aimed at enhancing national security, promoting technological sovereignty, and strengthening operational sustainability across Nigeria’s air defence architecture.
This renewed commitment was highlighted during a courtesy visit by the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NIGCOMSAT, Mrs. Jane Egerton-Idehen, to the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, at the NAF Headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday, 7 August 2025.
According to a statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the meeting focused on building a robust inter-agency synergy that would leverage NIGCOMSAT’s satellite communication infrastructure to support NAF operations, particularly in the areas of secure communications, real-time intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR).
Speaking during the visit, Air Marshal Abubakar stressed the need to reduce reliance on foreign technology and instead promote indigenous solutions to meet the dynamic operational demands of the NAF. “We must continually seek innovative ways to improve our capabilities. Strategic collaboration with institutions like NIGCOMSAT is essential for secure communication and real-time situational awareness across our theatres of operation,” he said.
On her part, Mrs. Egerton-Idehen applauded the Nigerian Air Force for its forward-thinking approach and expressed NIGCOMSAT’s readiness to deliver mission-tailored satellite services that will reinforce the Force’s strategic objectives. “This partnership is not only timely but critical in strengthening Nigeria’s digital defence infrastructure. NIGCOMSAT stands ready to deploy its expertise in support of the Nigerian Air Force and contribute meaningfully to national security,” she stated.
Both agencies acknowledged the growing relevance of space technologies in modern warfare and agreed on the need for continuous collaboration to harness Nigeria’s indigenous satellite capabilities.
The visit marks a significant step towards strengthening national defence through the use of home-grown technological solutions, and reflects the shared vision of both institutions in advancing Nigeria’s security and technological resilience.
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