Omowunmi Semudara
In a significant stride towards fostering technological innovation, the Federal Government has launched the Nigeria Communications Satellite (Limited) NigComSat Accelerator Programme to boost Nigeria Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and address security challenges in the Nation.
The launch of the program signifies a giant leap forward for Nigeria’stechnological advancement and economic diversification as it aimed at getting start-ups to adopt space technology to solve critical national challenges, attracted participants from the six geopolitical zones of the country.
Speaking at the launch of the the program in Abuja, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu who was represented by Chief Cliff Ogbede stated that the initiative aligns perfectly with the government’s commitment to fostering innovation and supporting indigenous capacity building, by nurturing promising talents and providing them with the necessary resources and mentorship which in his words “NIGCOMSAT is planting the seeds for a robust satellite ecosystem in Nigeria”.
He stressed the need to Foster partnership between academia , industry and the government to ensure knowledge sharing, resource pooling and efficient technology transfer.
“The Deputy Speaker and the House of Representatives recognize the strategic importance of this initiative and pledge our unwavering support. We believe that the success of this program will not only benefit Nigeria but also serve as a model for other African nations aspiring to harness the power of satellite technology.” Cliff noted.
“To the brilliant minds participating in this program, I urge you to seize this opportunity with unwavering dedication and a spirit of collaboration. Your journey holds the potential to transform our nation and inspire future generations. May your innovations illuminate the path toward a brighter and more connected future for us all” He urged.
On her part, the MD/CEO of NIGCOMSAT, Ms Jane Egerton-Idehen revealed that for the accelerator programme, NIGCOMSAT will be working with 20 startups from different sectors, adding that their varied projects have one unique general base which is the use of tech that requires satellite as an enabler to proffer solutions based on the needs of Nigerians.
She added that the programme was among others packaged to move the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and Digital economy sector’s contributions to the country’s GDP from 17.8 per cent to 22 per cent.
” Once again NIGCOMSAT Ltd is on the march to spur and re-engineer the teeming Nigerian youth, pioneering start-ups, space enthusiasts, and early-stage companies with space-tech solutions to a launch of NIGCOMSAT Accelerator program today.
The Accelerator program is a transformative journey spanning key stages, with a unique combination of mentorship, networking, and exposure to catapult the start-ups into the space-tech realm.”
“NIGCOMSAT Ltd in recognition of the transformative potentials of the nation’s space and satellite-related enthusiasts has established the programme in a comprehensive 24-week initiative aimed at fostering innovation, providing mentorship, and propelling startups into the global spotlight.
We started the first phase of this programme with the publicity of the program and invited start-ups who submitted applications in the first week of January to the first week of February 2024.” She explained.
“This took us to the evaluation and selection, the shortlisting, the interviews, and the final selection which took four weeks to complete. We are now at the launch phase which is taking place today. After this, we shall move into the DEEP-DIVE which will last for twenty- four weeks.
The twenty-four weeks include the Sandbox Environment, Mentorship and Check-in Sessions, Strategic Growth Support, Visibility, and Market Access, and lastly the Wrap-up.
This programme is geared towards a win-win situation for all stakeholders. It will position NIGCOMSAT Ltd as a key player in fostering innovation in the satellite industry. It will equally open and identify potential collaborators with emerging start-ups as well as gain positive exposure through successful start-ups.” She noted.
“On the other hand, we expect the participants to have a market-fit product, and have a NIGCOMSAT stamp, giving them access to national and the global market NIGCOMSAT is involved.
Other benefits for participants include having access to investors, mentors, industry leaders, and resources. It will also give global visibility showcasing their solutions on a global stage.” The NIGCOMSAT boss added.
