Ben Ezechime, Enugu
The Nigerian Communications Satellite Ltd. (NIGCOMSAT), in partnership with the Enugu SME Centre and the Enugu State Office of Digital Economy, has commenced the training of 120 youths in Enugu State on Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) installation, configuration, maintenance, and enterprise.
The initiative is part of the Federal Government’s NIGCOMSAT Youth Empowerment Programme. The theme of the training is “Strengthening Last Mile Connectivity: VSAT Capacity Building for Enugu State Communities.”
Managing Director of NIGCOMSAT, Mrs Jane Egerton-Idehen, said the programme aligns with NIGCOMSAT’s mandate to bridge Nigeria’s digital divide. Represented by the agency’s Head of Sales, Mr Ibiye Ukoko, she said NIGCOMSAT continues to expand secure and affordable satellite-based connectivity to underserved communities.
She noted that the agency remains the backbone of the national digital infrastructure and a key enabler of the country’s Digital Economy Policy.
“This programme is a core part of our mission to build a digitally empowered and future-ready Enugu State. By equipping these youths with VSAT skills, we are strengthening the state’s capacity to deploy satellite connectivity across communities where terrestrial infrastructure is weak or nonexistent,” she said.
Egerton-Idehen explained that NIGCOMSAT supports broadband expansion by delivering high-availability internet to remote areas, providing backhaul services for telecom operators, and powering critical sectors. She added that VSAT-based connectivity will enhance e-governance, bolster e-learning and telemedicine, support SMEs and digital businesses, and provide resilient communication infrastructure.
Also speaking, the Special Adviser to Governor Peter Mbah on SMEs and Digital Economy, Mr Arinze Chilo-Offiah, commended NIGCOMSAT for investing in Enugu’s human capital.
Represented by the Senior Programmes Manager at the Enugu SME Centre, Mr Salem Emmanuel, he described the initiative as a strategic step toward empowering the state’s youth with globally competitive digital skills.
“This programme is more than a training; it is a gateway to future opportunities. Under the leadership of Gov. Peter Mbah, Enugu remains committed to bridging the digital divide and building a workforce ready for tomorrow’s digital economy,” he said.
He urged participants to take full advantage of the programme, noting that the skills acquired will position them for opportunities in the rapidly expanding ICT services sector.
