The Nigerian Communications Commission has stated that only licensed satellite-based communication service providers will be allowed to operate in the country.

This was contained in its latest press statement to the public. According to the NCC, in line with its powers to grant licenses under the Nigeria Communications Act (NCA), 2003 the Commission has developed the following licenses:

• VSAT Earth Station Network Frequency License
• Mobile Satellite Service (MSS) Network Frequency License
• Gateway Earth Station (GES) Frequency License
• Earth Station in Motion (ESIM) Network Frequency License
• High Altitude Platform Stations(HAPS) Network Frequency License
• UAV/Drone Network Frequency License

The NCC observed that operators are providing Satellite Based Communication services without the requisite Frequency Licenses.

NCC stated that this was in contravention of section 122(1) of the NCA 2003, which states that “Subject to such exemptions as are contained in this Act or as may be determined by the commission, no person shall intentionally transmit in any part of the spectrum to provide a service unless the person holds a frequency license issued under this Part.”

The regulator stressed that all operators wishing to provide satellite-based communications services, are requested to immediately apply for the requisite Frequency licenses in compliance with the provisions of the NCA, 2003.

It also added that operators currently providing the said services without the requisite frequency licenses, are requested to regularize their position within six (6) months from the publication of the notice, for which failure will lead to regulatory action from the NCC.