T h e M i n i s t e r o f Communications, Barrister Adebayo Shittu has said that Nigeria needs two more satellites at the tune of $550 million to adequately equip NIGCOMSAT to discharge its duties. Th e minister who disclosed this during an interactive meeting with stakeholders on the establishment of the proposed ICT University of Nigeria, ICT Development Bank and ICT Park and Exhibition Centre, urged the private sector to intervene.
He stated that government is already making moves to secure a loan of $550 million from China NEXIM. He pointed out that governments drive to diversify the economy raised its concern for the development of the ICT sector. Th e minister according to a statement signed by the Ministry’s Assistant Director of Press, Mr. Asoluka Austin, enumerated critical areas that needs both local and international partnership.
He said, NIGCOMSAT acquisition of two satellites; Galaxy Backbone $350 million project (so that the country would be properly covered); proposed ICT University (which will provide skill training and manpower to Nigerian youth and potential students from other African countries); ICT Park and Exhibition Centre and the ICT Development Bank which is unique in a sense that it will provide specialized loans in the development of ICT infrastructures requires both local and international private sector investors partnership.
