China has expressed its readiness to assist Nigeria in the development of a robust communications satellite, furthering the collaboration that began in 2007
This was said by the Chinese ambassador to Nigeria, Gu Xiao Jie when he led a delegation from China Great Wall Industry Corporation (CGWIC) on a tour of Nigerian Communications Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) facilities. Jie assured that China will facilitate the establishment of an assimilation centre and also provide technical assistance in the launch of an astronaut. Saying that NIGCOMSAT was the first satellite station to be launched by China in Africa, Jie added that the two countries should work towards economic development and technological advancement based on comparative advantage.
A statement from Jie, signed by Asmau Galandachi, external relations manager of NIGCOMSAT, said that the new arrangement will facilitate “the official endorsement of a bilateral policy implementation and commercialisation” and lauded the relationship between NIGCOMSAT and CGWIC that has existed since 2007.
Managing director of NIGCOMSAT, Abimbola Alale was optimistic about the statement, saying Nigeria stood to gain from the partnership, given the numerous business opportunities in the sector. She also called on Chinese companies to operating in Nigeria to use the services of NIGCOMSAT.
The delegation from CGWIC included both technological experts and management representatives. The deal with NIGCOMSAT was the first deal for CGWIC where it provided all aspects of in-orbit delivery of a satellite to an international customer, which included satellite manufacture, launch services, ground station construction, project finance, insurance and personnel training.
