An agreement has been signed between Nigerian authorities and the satellite Internet service provider, owned by American billionaire Elon Musk, Starlink, which is authorized after being long banned. Objective: to cover almost the entire territory and improve connectivity in a country where the internet coverage rate is still very low.
Whether in 2G, 3G or 4G, internet coverage does not exceed one third of the territory Niger. After years of refusal, the authorities have said yes to Starlink. Main advantage of the offer: broadband at an advantageous rate with 200 Mb/s for approximately 25,000 FCFA per month. A turning point for Nigerian businesses, according to economist Ibrahim Adamou Louché: “What will change with Starlink is that broadband deployment will be very important for the business sector. Many business leaders complain about the poor quality of existing offerings. With Starlink this fear will disappear and companies will be able to develop their business.”
Starlink’s new African strategy
For a long time, the Nigerian authorities feared the use of this network by terrorist groups, but the risk/benefit ratio seems to have changed. “ With an actor like Starlink the coverage problem is solved”assures Antony Adopo, digital specialist in Africa.
He explains that Starlink’s strategy on the continent has also evolved. The access provider now sends its teams to negotiate convince African countries one by one. « Starlink has reached out to several states to reassure them about various concerns they may have, such as compliance with their regulatory frameworksexplains Antonio Adopo, there were several phases. The first was when countries realized that Starlink was operating in their territories without authorization, so there was an outcry that it is against the law. Then, discussions between governments and the operator. And once they understand each other, the third step: the acceptance of this new actor ».
What digital sovereignty?
The challenge of digital sovereignty remains. How will the data collected and communications passing through the network be controlled? Many countries like it Cameroonor the Democratic Republic of Congo continues to refuse to authorize Starlink. “ Countries, in reality, are not banning Starlink, but are evaluating how to involve this player while preserving the local ecosystem, assures Antonio Adopothere are local operators who have been investing for a long time, who need a lot of budget to be able to connect everyone. It is this equation that is taken into account in most African countries.”
After the recent Liberia, Niger will become the fifteenth African country to authorize Starlink on its territory. In Kenya, on Monday 4 November, the American operator suspended all new subscriptions due to an overload on its network.
Time.news Interview: Editor with Digital Expert on Starlink’s Expansion in Nigeria
Editor: Welcome to Time.news. Today, we’re diving into a significant development in the realm of digital connectivity in Nigeria. We have with us Antony Adopo, a digital specialist with expertise in African telecommunications. Welcome, Antony.
Antony: Thank you for having me. I’m excited to discuss this crucial development.
Editor: Let’s jump right in. Nigeria recently signed an agreement with Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite Internet service provider, which has been long banned in the country. What do you think has prompted this change?
Antony: That’s a great question. For years, Nigerian authorities were concerned about the potential misuse of Starlink’s network by terrorist groups. However, the need for enhanced connectivity has become critical, and the perceived risk has shifted. Now, the potential benefits of providing access to reliable broadband are outweighing those concerns.
Editor: Absolutely. We know that internet coverage in Nigeria is currently quite low, with only about a third of the territory connected through 2G, 3G, or 4G. How will Starlink’s deployment impact that?
Antony: Starlink’s entry into the market is a game-changer. With the capacity to cover almost the entire territory, they will significantly enhance internet access. This could lead to broadband reaching remote areas that have been neglected. It’s a step towards bridging the digital divide, fostering inclusivity, and stimulating economic growth.
Editor: Speaking of economic growth, economist Ibrahim Adamou Louché mentioned that many business leaders have faced challenges due to the poor quality of existing internet services. How do you see Starlink addressing these issues for businesses?
Antony: The introduction of Starlink could revolutionize the business landscape. With speeds of 200 Mb/s at an affordable price—around 25,000 FCFA per month—companies can access faster and more reliable internet. This will enable them to operate more efficiently, adopt digital solutions, and ultimately develop their services. Quality connectivity is fundamental for innovation, and Starlink provides that.
Editor: That’s very insightful. Moving forward, how do you envision the future of digital connectivity in Nigeria and the broader African continent with initiatives like this?
Antony: The future is promising. This move could encourage more international tech companies to invest in Africa, knowing there’s a viable infrastructure developing. As internet connectivity improves, we’ll likely see a surge in startups, e-commerce, and digital services, which could lead to job creation and economic diversification. If other countries follow Nigeria’s lead, we could witness a digital renaissance across the continent.
Editor: Indeed, it sounds like a crucial pivot for Nigeria and potentially beyond. Is there anything else you think our readers should keep an eye on regarding this development?
Antony: Yes, I recommend watching how the Nigerian authorities manage this relationship with Starlink and ensure user privacy and data security. The success of this initiative could set a precedent for other countries in Africa looking to improve their internet infrastructure.
Editor: Thank you, Antony, for sharing your insights on this important topic. We look forward to seeing how Starlink will transform connectivity in Nigeria and the opportunities it might open up for the region.
Antony: Thank you for having me. It’s an exciting time for digital connectivity in Africa!