"Saudi Arabia and Nigeria Form Groundbreaking Satellite Partnership to Elevate Media Collaboration"
By Gloria Sarauniya Usman
ABUJA, NIGERIA September, 2024- In a move set to bolster international media collaboration, the Saudi Arabian Embassy has opened discussions with Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT) to broadcast four Saudi television channels via the NigComSat-1R satellite.
This potential partnership was initiated during a visit to NIGCOMSAT’s Ground Control Station on Friday, where Mohammed Alsahabi, the Saudi Embassy’s Head of Media, met with NIGCOMSAT’s Executive Director of Technical Services, Engr. Abiodun Attah, on behalf of the Managing Director and CEO, Mrs. Jane Egerton-Idehen.
The meeting focused on leveraging satellite technology to expand broadcasting services, facilitating access to diverse content for Nigerian audiences and beyond. By hosting Saudi channels on NigComSat-1R, the initiative aims to deepen cultural ties between the two nations while enhancing media accessibility across Africa.
Mr. Alsahabi expressed enthusiasm for the project, highlighting its potential to showcase Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural and religious history to Nigerian viewers. “There are strong cultural and religious bonds between Saudi Arabia and Nigeria. Unfortunately, Saudi Arabia is mainly recognized for Hajj, but there is much more to share,” Alsahabi remarked.
Mrs. Egerton-Idehen, through her representative, reiterated NIGCOMSAT’s dedication to fostering international partnerships and expanding Africa’s digital communications infrastructure. She emphasized that the collaboration aligns with NIGCOMSAT’s mission to position itself as a regional leader in satellite services.
The talks are expected to continue as both parties work out technical and operational details, with the launch of the channels anticipated in the near future. This partnership is poised to elevate Nigeria’s broadcasting landscape and contribute to the growth of the country’s media sector.
The Press Release was signed by
Aisha Banta Head, Corporate Affairs Department NIGCOMSAT.
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