In August 2025, I stood on board the NNS Kano, a naval ship proudly managed by the Nigerian Navy. What I witnessed that day was more than naval discipline or maritime expertise. It was a living proof that space technology is not distant or abstract but a practical tool shaping Nigeria’s economy and security.
The ship carried a mobile antenna powered by Nigeria’s satellite systems. With it, the crew accessed the internet even 15 nautical miles from the coast. I watched them coordinate seamlessly, and it struck me, space technology is not just about rockets in the sky. It is about safety, sovereignty, and economic growth here on the ground.
Building from national assets
A year earlier, I had visited the Naval Dockyard. There, I discovered that the Nigerian Navy had built its own ship the first in West Africa. Representing the Nigerian Communications Satellite agency (NigComSat), I suggested extending satellite connectivity to the vessel. That idea became reality, and today the Navy sails with constant access to communication.
The results are clear. Nigeria recorded zero piracy incidents in recent years and exited the global list of piracy-prone nations. Satellite-enabled communication also strengthens the fight against illegal oil bunkering, improves crude oil monitoring, and reduces revenue losses. These gains show how space technology directly boosts national defense and economic resilience.
A multi-billion dollar opportunity
Nigeria’s space economy holds enormous potential. The satellite communication market stands at $200.3 billion and could rise to $318.9 billion by 2029. As part of the wider Information and Communications Technology sector, the space economy could contribute up to 19.78 percent of Nigeria’s GDP.
McKinsey’s 2024 report reinforced this view, noting that Nigeria’s population and vast underserved regions could benefit from expanded internet access through satellite infrastructure. That access could unlock growth across the continent, starting with Nigeria.
Closing the infrastructure gap
The biggest obstacle is weak infrastructure. Too often, either the public or the private sector shoulders the responsibility alone. True progress demands collaboration. Public-private partnerships can speed up funding and deployment, ensuring efficiency and sustainability.
Nigeria needs value-based funding. When leaders articulate the commercial and security benefits of satellite projects, investors see the potential and commit resources. But investment without accountability wastes resources. Nigeria invested over $50 million in 2020, yet poor oversight limited returns. Strong management and clear objectives remain critical.
A roadmap for the future
An Igbo proverb says, Onye maara uzo ga-aga oso oso: “He who knows the road travels faster.” Nigeria needs a clear space roadmap with measurable KPIs and transparent procurement. Without direction, investments scatter. With it, space technology can become a pillar of growth and independence.
The global space economy keeps moving forward. Nigeria cannot afford to lag. Space technology offers security and economic opportunity, but only if we act deliberately and strategically.
The NNS Kano experience shows how satellite connectivity delivers real results for security and commerce. Expanding this approach across other sectors could unlock billions, improve inclusion, and position Nigeria as a continental leader in the space economy.
The opportunity is clear. Nigeria now needs vision, management, and bold investments to secure its future in space technology.
