NIGCOMSAT, Jigawa Govt Empower 150 Youths on Satellite Innovations
From Mika’il Tsoho, Dutse
The Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT), in collaboration with the Jigawa State Government, has commenced the training of 150 youths in satellite technology and digital communication.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the training held at the Manpower Development Centre in Dutse, the Managing Director of NIGCOMSAT, Jane Egerton-Idehen, emphasized the agency’s role in driving grassroots innovation in Jigawa State.
She explained that the training, themed “Space Technology for Grassroots Development”, is aimed at empowering youths with digital skills to create job opportunities and boost the local economy.
“The NIGCOMSAT Youth Empowerment Programme in Jigawa is a groundbreaking initiative designed to equip young minds with cutting-edge knowledge in satellite technology and digital communication,” she said.
Egerton-Idehen added that the program is structured to foster innovation, enhance technical skills, and create opportunities for youths in the growing space-tech industry.
She noted that the training features two key components: SpaceHack 2025, which focuses on using satellite technology to address real-world challenges in agriculture, disaster management, telecommunications, and security; and a segment on Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) technology, a satellite system that transmits and receives data, voice, and video signals using compact antennas.
In his remarks, the Director General of the Jigawa State Economic Empowerment and Youth Employment Agency, Dr. Habib Muhammad Ubale, urged participants to focus, acquire the skills, and cascade the knowledge to others for greater community impact.
Dr. Habib highlighted that the initiative aligns with Governor Malam Umar Namadi’s 12-point agenda, stressing that such programs can generate thousands of jobs, improve the economy, and help reduce insecurity in the state.
He commended both Governor Namadi for his support and NIGCOMSAT for selecting Jigawa as the host for the training.
