Global Satellite Operators Association Appoints NIGCOMSAT CEO Jane Egerton Idehen as Vice Chair
The global satellite industry has entered a new phase of leadership, and Nigeria is firmly in the spotlight. Jane Nkechi Egerton Idehen, Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Communications Satellite (NIGCOMSAT), has been appointed Vice Chair of the Board of the Global Satellite Operators Association (GSOA). The announcement was made in Paris on September 15, 2025.
A reshaped leadership team
The GSOA is the leading body representing the satellite ecosystem worldwide. Its members include communication and earth observation operators, manufacturers, launch providers, ground segment players, and policy stakeholders.
With the new appointments, Ali Al Hashemi, CEO of Space Services at Space42, becomes Chair. Adel Al Saleh, CEO of SES, joins Egerton Idehen as Vice Chair.
Isabelle Mauro, Director General of GSOA, described the reshuffle as a defining moment.
“Ali, Adel, and Jane bring unique insights and leadership at a time when global collaboration across the ecosystem is more important than ever. GSOA’s role is to unite the satellite industry to speak with one voice to promote the essential value we bring to society, from emergency response and climate monitoring to universal broadband access,” she said.
Nigeria’s rising influence
Egerton Idehen highlighted the importance of satellite technology for emerging economies.
“In many markets, satellite is often the only viable solution to bridge the digital divide. I am proud to bring diverse perspectives to the global conversation and support GSOA in promoting inclusive and sustainable connectivity,” she noted.
Her appointment underscores Nigeria’s expanding influence in discussions about affordable internet access and digital inclusion. It also positions the country as a critical contributor to global policy and infrastructure conversations.
An industry in transition
The satellite sector is experiencing rapid change. Multi orbit architectures, cloud integration, and growing demand for low latency networks are shaping new services.
Adel Al Saleh described the shift as unprecedented and stressed GSOA’s role in guiding regulations.
“The satellite industry is going through significant transformation, driven by demand for resilient networks and advanced integration. GSOA’s leadership is critical, and I look forward to contributing to this important work,” he said.
Ali Al Hashemi, the new Chair, also shared his optimism.
“This is deeply meaningful to me personally and professionally. Having served as Vice Chair of GSOA since 2023, this election reflects the trust and confidence my fellow industry leaders have placed in me and in our region’s contributions to global satellite innovation,” Hashemi remarked.
The road ahead for GSOA
With its new leadership team, GSOA has pledged to push for fair spectrum access, balanced regulatory policies, and responsible use of space. The association continues to represent the entire satellite ecosystem, ensuring diverse voices are included in decisions that affect the future of global connectivity.
For Egerton Idehen, this new position creates an opportunity to strengthen Nigeria’s visibility on the world stage. It also ensures that Africa’s perspectives remain central in shaping the digital future.
Who is Jane Egerton Idehen?
Jane Nkechi Egerton Idehen is a seasoned technology executive, author, and angel investor with more than 17 years of experience in telecommunications and satellite communications. She was appointed Managing Director and CEO of NIGCOMSAT by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on October 11, 2023.
Born and raised in Lagos, she holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Electronics from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and an MBA from Warwick Business School in the UK. She has also completed executive programs at Harvard Business School and Yale School of Management.
Her career includes leadership roles at Ericsson, Nokia Siemens Networks, Avanti Communications, and Meta. Before leading NIGCOMSAT, she worked as Head of Sales for the Middle East and Africa at Meta, Country Manager for Nigeria at Avanti, and Regional Sales Director for West Africa. Her professional journey reflects not only technical excellence but also a passion for mentorship, diversity, and inclusion.
Why this matters
Egerton Idehen’s appointment is more than a personal achievement. It signals a global recognition of African leadership in technology. As the satellite industry navigates change, her presence at GSOA ensures that emerging economies play a vital role in shaping the rules and innovations that define tomorrow’s digital infrastructure.
