NIGCOMSAT launches second accelerator cohort to drive Nigeria’s space-tech innovation

Summary

• 35 startups selected for the NIGCOMSAT Accelerator Programme Cohort 2.0, up from 20 in the inaugural edition
• Programme launched on June 18, 2025, to support innovation in satellite and digital technologies
• Mentorship, funding, and global exposure to help startups solve real-world challenges and boost economic growth

Abuja, Nigeria – The Nigerian Communications Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) Limited has officially launched Cohort 2.0 of its Accelerator Programme, reaffirming its commitment to positioning Nigeria at the forefront of space and digital innovation. Held at the Communications and Digital Economy Complex in Mbora, Abuja, the launch brought together top government officials, security chiefs, innovators, and development partners.

Themed “Innovation in Orbit: Empowering the Next Generation of Space-Tech Entrepreneurs,” the programme targets 35 high-potential startups, an increase from 20 in its inaugural 2024 edition. The startups were selected from a competitive pool of 281 applicants, with a notable emphasis on female-led ventures to promote gender inclusion in science and technology.

A major highlight of the event was a panel discussion titled “A Gamechanger for Nigerian Entrepreneurs,” which focused on the role of innovation and digital growth in shaping the future of Nigeria’s economy. Speakers underscored the potential of space-based technologies to address key development challenges across sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, logistics, education, and security.

The accelerator will run until October 2025, offering participants access to expert mentorship from partners like Google and Amazon Web Services (AWS); intensive workshops on business development, product refinement, and capacity building; funding and investor networking opportunities; and global exposure through international showcases and partnership engagements.

Mrs. Jane Nkechi Egerton-Idehen, Managing Director/CEO of NIGCOMSAT, described the initiative as a strategic investment in Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem. “We are placing the tools of the future—satellite and digital technology—into the hands of Nigerian innovators. Our goal is to drive inclusive, homegrown solutions that can scale globally,” she said.

Contributions from the security sector reinforced the importance of satellite technology in national development. Representatives of the Chief of Defence Staff and Inspector-General of Police highlighted its applications in surveillance, secure communications, and threat analysis.

The programme is delivered in partnership with the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), private sector experts, and venture investors, creating a robust ecosystem for growth.

Following the success of Cohort 1.0, where three startups—BetaLife, InnoviaLab, and Agroxchange—emerged as top performers, Cohort 2.0 is expected to broaden impact and deepen Nigeria’s position in the global space-tech economy.

With the global space economy projected to surpass $1 trillion, NIGCOMSAT’s accelerator initiative is a bold move to ensure that Nigeria is not merely a consumer but a creator and exporter of cutting-edge solutions in the space and digital sectors.

More information is available at www.nigcomsat.gov.ng.