NCC plans satellite-to-phone services to connect 23.3 million unserved Nigerians, partnering with Airtel and Starlink to reach rural areas by 2026
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) plans to roll out satellite-to-phone internet services to connect an estimated 23.3 million Nigerians who lack access to mobile networks.
According to a consultation paper published on its website, the regulator intends to leverage satellite technology to serve rural and hard-to-reach areas where building base stations is expensive or operationally challenging.
Satellite-to-phone, or direct-to-device (D2D) connectivity, allows regular smartphones to connect directly to satellites for calls, texts, and limited data without relying on terrestrial towers.
Advances in satellite technology now make large-scale deployment possible, providing a vital solution for isolated communities.
87 connectivity blackspots identified
The NCC’s 2024 cluster gap study identified 87 underserved clusters across Nigeria where mobile service is limited or non-existent.
The regulator emphasised that satellite services would complement existing infrastructure rather than replace it, and is seeking stakeholder input on deployment, spectrum management, and consumer protection.
Airtel and Starlink partnership
Industry developments are already pointing toward D2D services. In December 2025, Airtel Africa announced a partnership with SpaceX’s Starlink to launch direct-to-cell services across 14 African markets, including Nigeria.
The service, expected in 2026, will initially support text messaging and limited data using over 650 low-Earth orbit satellites.
With over 59 million subscribers in Nigeria, Airtel aims to become the first operator to offer Starlink-powered D2D services in Africa.
Challenges of rural connectivity
Despite a national broadband access rate of about 50%, nearly half of Nigeria’s population lives in rural areas with little or no mobile or internet coverage.
Factors such as high deployment costs, scattered settlements, unreliable electricity, challenging terrain, and security concerns have hindered rural expansion.
Satellite-to-phone services offer a faster, cheaper way to connect Nigeria’s remaining blackspots, potentially bringing millions of Nigerians online for the first time.
Competition ahead
Amazon’s Project Kuiper has also received NCC approval to provide satellite broadband in Nigeria from 2026, marking the start of a competitive market for satellite internet.
Kuiper is authorised to deploy up to 3,236 low-Earth orbit satellites as part of its global constellation.
