Technology
Nigeria’s Communications Minister Explores Job Creation Potential with SpaceX’s Starlink
The Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, has highlighted the job creation potential in Nigeria through initiatives such as a certified installer/maintenance program for SpaceX’s Starlink and collaboration with local hardware startups to manufacture repeater boxes.
During a meeting with SpaceX’s Senior Director of Global Licensing and Activation, Ryan Goodnight, at the International Telecommunication Union-World Radio Communication Conference in Dubai, the minister emphasized the growing demand for Starlink services in Nigeria.
In a tweet, Minister Tijani stated, “As demand for @Starlink continues to grow in Nigeria, we spoke about the issue of connecting unserved and underserved Nigerians.”
He also proposed the possibility of creating thousands of new jobs through initiatives like a certified installer/maintenance program for Starlink and encouraging collaboration with local hardware startups to produce repeater boxes.
Nigeria has become Starlink’s largest market in Africa, with the service officially launching in the country in January 2023.
According to data from the Nigerian Communications Commission, Starlink has gained 6,756 wireless Internet subscribers since its introduction.
The minister’s focus on job creation aligns with the broader goal of fostering technological innovation and growth within Nigeria.
By encouraging collaborations and initiatives in the tech sector, the government aims to deepen the country’s technological ecosystem.
Minister Tijani’s proactive approach to leveraging partnerships with global technology companies like SpaceX underscores Nigeria’s commitment to harnessing digital solutions for widespread connectivity and economic development.
As the demand for reliable Internet services continues to rise, initiatives like Starlink could play a crucial role in bridging the digital divide and creating employment opportunities in the country.