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FG hopes on new satellite, NigComSat-2 to revive economy

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The Nigerian government is preparing to launch a new satellite, NigComSat-2, which is expected to significantly impact various sectors of the economy. The announcement was made by Aisha Bantam, Assistant General Manager of Communications at Nigerian Communications Satellite Ltd (NIGCOMSAT), during a capacity training session for journalists. According to Mrs. Jane Nkechi Egerton-Idehen, the Managing Director and CEO of NIGCOMSAT, the government is fully committed to this project due to its potential to advance Nigeria’s space capabilities and drive economic growth.

Although the timeline for the satellite’s launch was not disclosed, Bantam assured that it would occur as soon as possible. NigComSat-2 is anticipated to enhance NIGCOMSAT’s ability to provide high-speed communication services both within Nigeria and internationally. The satellite will support a range of applications including broadband internet, telemedicine, e-learning, and will also serve critical sectors like agriculture, security, health, and education.

Nigeria’s history with satellite technology has been challenging. The country initially invested $340 million in NigComSat-1, which was launched on May 13, 2007. Unfortunately, the satellite experienced technical failures and was de-orbited in November 2008. A replacement, NigComSat-1R, was launched on December 19, 2011, following a contract with China Great Wall Industry Corporation. This satellite is expected to continue its service until 2026.

Despite the launch of NigComSat-1R, there has been a lack of political will to follow up with additional satellites, and many government agencies and businesses have preferred foreign satellite services. This has led to underutilization of NigComSat-1R. For instance, the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) opted for a foreign Eutelsat service rather than using the indigenous satellite.

However, Egerton-Idehen expressed optimism about the government’s renewed commitment to satellite technology, highlighting the importance of having backup satellites and the role they play in various critical areas. She also acknowledged the media’s crucial role in promoting the satellite communication industry and educating the public on its benefits.

Overall, the upcoming NigComSat-2 represents a significant step for Nigeria’s space and communication capabilities, aiming to address past issues and support the country’s socio-economic development.

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JUST IN: Tinubu’s political adviser, Hakeem Baba-Ahmed resigns‎‎

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Dr Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, the political adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has resigned.‎‎Baba-Ahmed was appointed Special Adviser on Political Matters in the Office of Vice President Kashim Shettima in September 2023.‎

Sources in the presidency confirmed yesterday that the former spokesman of the Northern Elders Forum (NEF) tendered his resignation about two weeks ago.‎

The sources said Dr. Baba-Ahmed did not provide details of the reasons for his decision, only stating that it was on personal grounds.

‎However, as of the time of filing this report, it was unclear whether the presidency had accepted his resignation.‎‎

Over the past 17 months, he has represented the presidency at several public fora, including a recent national conference themed: “Strengthening Nigeria’s Democracy: Pathway to Good Governance and Political Integrity”, which held from 28th to 29th January, 2025 in Abuja.

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High court dismisses Kwankwaso faction’s suit challenging NNPP leadership

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A High Court in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, has rejected a lawsuit filed by a faction aligned with Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, which sought to challenge the leadership of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) under Chief Dr. Boniface Aniebonam and National Chairman Dr. Agbo Major.

The lawsuit, initiated by Dr. Ahmed Ajuji and 20 other individuals, aimed to invalidate the authority of the NNPP’s Board of Trustees (BoT) and its executive leadership, including Barr. Tony Christopher Obioha, National Secretary Comrade Oginni Olaposi, and Deputy National Chairman Chief Felix Chukwurah.

The plaintiffs requested that the court prevent these leaders from holding meetings, organizing congresses, or overseeing the party’s National Convention, asserting that they had been expelled from the party.

However, Justice M.A. Hassan ruled that the court lacked jurisdiction to hear the case, emphasizing that internal matters such as party leadership and membership fall outside the court’s purview.

“The law, as affirmed by both the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court, is clear: courts do not intervene in internal political party matters, except when it concerns the nomination of election candidates,” Justice Hassan stated.

This ruling follows a similar decision from the Abia State High Court (Suit No.: HUZ/11/2024) on November 1, 2024, which had reaffirmed the legitimacy of the NNPP’s Board of Trustees led by Dr. Boniface Aniebonam and upheld the validity of the party’s congresses and National Convention.

Defendants’ counsel, Segun Fiki Esq., praised the judgment, calling the case an attempt to manipulate the party’s leadership through the legal system.

“The court’s decision is clear—this is a matter outside its jurisdiction.

The NNPP’s legitimate leadership has been affirmed, and we now expect the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to recognize and cooperate with the duly elected officials of the party,” Fiki said.

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We’re working on new 2025 budget for Rivers – Sole Administrator Ibas

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The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, has announced that a 2025 budget is being prepared to enhance healthcare delivery, education, agriculture, and infrastructure.

Speaking on Thursday at the Government House in Port Harcourt, while receiving a delegation of the Rivers State caucus at the National Assembly, Ibas stated that the anticipated budget would also focus on creating more employment opportunities for the people of Rivers State and advancing technological development in critical areas of public life.

The delegation was led by Senator Barinada Mpigi, representing Rivers South-East District.

Other members included Senator Allwell Onyesoh and the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Hon. Kingsley Chinda.

The rest are honourables Dumnamene Dekor, Solomon Bob, Cyril Godwin Hart, Blessing Amadi, Felix Nwaeke, Kelechi Nwogu, and Victor Obuzor.

The sole administrator emphasised that since assuming office, he has remained committed to restoring law and order in Rivers State, with the support of security agencies.

Ibas reiterated his administration’s commitment to making Rivers State a model of peace among states, with a stable economy and an environment where citizens can pursue their livelihoods without fear or intimidation.

He highlighted the importance of the lawmakers’ support as key representatives of Rivers State in the National Assembly, calling for their assistance in securing the necessary resources and legislative backing to bring his administration’s initiatives to fruition.

He said: “Since the Supreme Court verdict on the state’s budget, we have acted swiftly and decided to put together a new budget that reflects our commitment to healthcare, education, social services, and continued infrastructural development.

“We have worked diligently to ensure that the process is transparent, inclusive, and, most importantly, expedited.

“Our goal is to ensure that we do not lose any more time in making the necessary investments that will improve the lives of citizens.

“The budget, which is being finalised, focuses on creating job opportunities and investing in key sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure, and technology.

“We understand the urgency of this initiative, and we are committed to ensuring that it is implemented without delay.”

According to Ibas, the people of Rivers State have demonstrated resilience in the ongoing efforts to restore peace and uphold the rule of law.

He assured that his administration remains committed to achieving lasting peace in the state.

In his remarks, Senator Mpigi assured that members of the National Assembly caucus would support all efforts aimed at bringing development to the state.

Notable National Assembly members absent at the meeting include the immediate past Deputy Governor, Senator Ipalibo Harry Banigo, and Hon. Boma Goodhead.

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