SpaceX applies for a Nigeria telecom licence in bid to deliver internet access to rural areas

Iconic aerospace company SpaceX is making an entry into the African continent. The Elon Musk company just applied for a telecom license in Nigeria to deliver high-speed internet to rural areas. The Starlink project sets up an interconnected network of low-earth-orbit satellites delivering high-speed internet connectivity.

The broadband penetration is at 70% which covers 90% of the entire population. According to Business Insider Africa, the company has applied for a Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) license that offers high-speed internet via satellite.

The company’s application for a telecommunication license was confirmed by its Market Access Director for Africa Ryan Goodnight. The meeting took place alongside Prof. Umar Danbatta, Executive Vice-Chairman.

Ryan described Nigeria as a critical maker for Africa. He also confirmed continued talks with Nigeria over several months to kickstart the process of pursuing all licenses to bring satellite broadband services to Nigeria. In a statement shared by NCC, the commission body confirmed they will review the application to ensure it meets “effective and a sustainable telecoms ecosystem.”