Bukola Afeni
The Nigerian Communications Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) Ltd has announced the launch of the second phase of its Accelerator Programme, an initiative aimed at supporting startups that utilize satellite and space-related technologies to solve pressing local and global challenges.
The announcement was made in a statement signed by Aisha Bantam, Head of NIGCOMSAT’s Corporate Affairs Department.
Scheduled to take place on July 18, 2025, in Abuja, the programme will run under the theme “Innovation in Orbit: Empowering the Next Generation of Space-Tech Entrepreneurs.” It is designed to drive innovation across several key sectors including agriculture, healthcare, climate resilience, education, robotics, logistics, and digital infrastructure.
According to the statement, the programme officially kicks off with an onboarding session on June 20, followed by a series of intensive workshops, mentorship opportunities, and business development activities. It will culminate in an October Demo Day, where selected startups will pitch their solutions to a global audience of investors, policymakers, and stakeholders, providing a crucial platform for visibility, partnerships, and funding.
Managing Director/CEO of NIGCOMSAT Ltd, Mrs. Jane Nkechi Egerton-Idehen, emphasized the significance of the programme to national development.
“Placing space technology in the hands of Nigeria’s brightest innovators is a bold step towards sustainable national development. This accelerator is not only a platform for nurturing viable tech solutions but also a catalyst for redefining Nigeria’s role in the global space economy,” she said.
The statement reads: The programme officially begins with onboarding on June 20, 2025, followed by an intensive series of capacity-building workshops, mentorship sessions, product refinement and business development activities, culminating in investor matchmaking opportunities.
“A major highlight will be the Demo Day in October, where selected startups will pitch their solutions to a diverse audience of investors, policymakers, and global stakeholders—offering a critical platform for visibility, partnerships, and potential funding.
“The NIGCOMSAT Accelerator Programme is implemented in collaboration with strategic partners, including the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), private sector experts, investors, and innovation ecosystem builders. Together, these partnerships position the programme as a national launchpad for cutting-edge ideas and entrepreneurial growth within Nigeria’s emerging space-tech landscape.”
Speaking on the upcoming launch, Mrs. Maureen Nzekwe, Programme Coordinator, revealed that the first cohort attracted 281 applications, with 35 startups selected to advance to the final stage in October 2025. She also noted the increased participation of female-led startups, reflecting NIGCOMSAT’s strong commitment to gender inclusion and empowering women in science, technology and innovation.
