In order to avoid losing $400 million, the House of Representatives urged the federal government on Tuesday to promptly renew the two orbital slots that the International Telecommunication Union had given the country.

This came after a motion on “Need to safeguard Nigeria’s orbital slots to prevent potential financial loss of $400m to Nigeria” was adopted. The motion was made by Mr. Tolani Shagaya, a member representing the Ilorin West/Asa Federal Constituency in Kwara State.

Nigeria was given three orbital slots by the ITU to install satellites in geostationary orbit.

Among other things, the slots are essential for national security, broadcasting, communications, and weather monitoring.

“At the moment, only one of these slots is utilised through NigComSat-1, leaving the other two vulnerable to reassignment if left unused by the deadline of December 6, 2024,” Shagaya stated, emphasising the significance of the move.

The cost of obtaining a new orbital space is over $200 million, and losing these slots would hinder Nigeria’s economic and scientific advancement in addition to causing a large financial loss.

“A number of factors, including financial constraints, insufficient technical infrastructure, and delays in policy implementation, contribute to the underutilisation of these slots.”

The Kwara lawmaker added that increasing worldwide demand for satellite services could result in Nigeria’s allotted positions being permanently forfeited, even though the importance of orbital slots extends beyond technological advancement to include national security, disaster response, and navigation capabilities.

“To fully utilise these orbital slots, Nigeria must accelerate satellite development processes, obtain the required funding, and investigate collaborations with private companies and international space agencies,” he continued.

“The House acknowledges that safeguarding Nigeria’s orbital slots is essential for national security, economic empowerment, and international recognition; it goes beyond technical considerations.

“To position Nigeria as a major player in the dynamic space industry, it is imperative to make the most of these slots.”

“Prioritise the protection of Nigeria’s orbital slots and investment in satellite technology to ensure the full utilisation of Nigeria’s allocated orbital slots before the impending deadline,” the House said after the motion was adopted.

Additionally, it recommended that the Federal Government set up an oversight system to track orbital slot utilisation progress and guarantee adherence to ITU requirements, as well as to guarantee the timely registration and renewal of Nigeria’s orbital slots.

In order to avoid losing the slots, it also encouraged the National Space Research and Development Agency and Nigeria Communications Satellite Limited to step up their efforts in creating and launching the satellites that will occupy them.

The House Committee on Digital and Communications Technology was also instructed to carry out a thorough analysis of Nigeria’s present orbital slot usage and submit a report for additional legislative action within two weeks.