As part of efforts to establish a regulatory framework for Satellite Direct-to-Device (D2D) connectivity in Nigeria, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has released a Consultation Paper, a preliminary engagement with key stakeholders before the activation of the Commission’s rule-making process under Section 71 of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003.
The outcome of this Consultation Process will provide clarity and an evidence base to inform the Commission’s consideration of a regulatory framework for Satellite Direct-to-Device (D2D) connectivity in Nigeria, including matters relating to spectrum use, coexistence, authorization, competition, consumer protection, security, and long-term investment incentives.
A Statement signed by the Head, Public Affairs Department of the NCC, Nnenna Ukoha, notes that the feedback received will support the Commission in developing a robust understanding of emerging D2D service models and their implications for Nigeria’s communications ecosystem, and will inform any future regulatory considerations in this area.
This Consultation, among others, is intended to ensure that any subsequent framework is informed, proportionate, transparent, and responsive to Nigeria’s market realities.
The regulator further stated that the objectives of this Consultation include:
To seek evidence-based input on potential use cases, benefits, risks, and public-interest considerations associated with D2D services in the Nigerian context;
To gather stakeholder views on suitable technologies and network architectures, including expected performance characteristics and deployment considerations; and
To inform the Commission’s assessment of potential spectrum demand, coexistence, and authorization considerations, ahead of any regulatory framework for Satellite D2D connectivity.
Findings from the Commission’s 2024 cluster gap study conducted by the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF), identified 87 clusters affecting approximately 23.37 million people, highlighting areas where connectivity challenges persist and where multiple solutions may be relevant.
Recent advances in satellite and non-terrestrial network technologies are enabling mobile devices to connect directly to satellites and, in some cases, airborne platforms. These developments may complement Nigeria’s terrestrial networks by extending coverage to underserved and unserved areas; providing backup connectivity during outages or disruptions; strengthening emergency communications and resilience; and supporting national objectives on digital inclusion, security, innovation and economic development.
The D2D services are being developed in primarily two main categories:
Connecting bespoke/tailored devices directly to satellites using spectrum allocated for traditional Mobile-satellite services (MSS).
Connecting unmodified cell phones directly to satellites using spectrum allocated for mobile terrestrial networks (IMT).
Interested stakeholders and contributors are to access the Consultation Paper from the Commission’s website link, https://ncc.gov.ng/sites/default/files/2026-01/Consultation-Paper-on-Satellite-Direct-to-Device_2.pdf. The site provides the full background, scope, and consultation questions, to which responses should be submitted through the online form contained in the document no later than Monday, February 23, 2026.
