Nigeria’s launch of satellites is traceable to 2004 when the first contract was signed to build the first satellite Nicomsat 1. Later in 2011, the second was launched in Russia. Nigeria has launched about two satellites since 2007. The first satellite Nicomsat-1 reportedly cost £3m equivalent to N9m. The satellite was expected to last for 15 years i. e 2022.
Unfortunately, in 2008, contact was lost from the satellite. In 2011, the second satellite Nicomsat 1R was launched as a replacement of the failed one. Up to now, the second one is in use. The main purpose of launching the satellite has not been fully achieved.
As for security, Nigeria is facing intense security challenge. The security situation has deteriorated like never before. The question now is, where is our satellite? Is it still functioning? Nigerians want to know what has become of the satellite. In areas where flooding occurs regularly, it is sad that Nicomsat 1R has not been able to improve the country’s agricultural output positively. Even farming has not been fully harnessed during raining season. But the main issue is that Nigeria must be able to tell us where the satellite is and what is hindering its performance.
Abdulbaqi Aliyu,
Katsina Local Government Council, Katsina state.
