NIGCOMSAT Rejects Procurement Allegations for Satellite Program, Calls Report Misleading
NIGCOMSAT denied allegations of irregularities in the procurement for NIGCOMSAT-2A and NIGCOMSAT-2B satellite programs, calling a September 18 Daily Post report misleading. The agency affirmed the process followed Bureau of Public Procurement guidelines competitively and transparently, with all bidders assessed on identical technical, financial and compliance criteria. Outcome was based on comprehensive evaluation including technical responsiveness, financial compliance, delivery capability, project risk, security and long-term government value—not performance in individual areas.
NIGCOMSAT stressed that non-selection of a bidder doesn't indicate wrongdoing, noting past relationships don't guarantee future selection and participation doesn't confer entitlement to win. It addressed staff welfare concerns, explaining current management inherited a 17-year-unreviewed salary structure and is initiating review through proper channels while handling outstanding official assignment obligations. Regarding Hughes Network Systems selection, it clarified that Chapter 11 proceedings of a related entity don't automatically disqualify a contractor, emphasizing technical assessment and verified facts should determine suitability.
The agency described the satellites as critical for Nigeria's digital infrastructure, expected to strengthen national communications resilience, expand broadband coverage, improve connectivity in underserved communities, and support national security, education, healthcare, broadcasting and economic development. NIGCOMSAT said the program includes technical, financial, legal and project-continuity safeguards and urged concerned parties to use statutory procurement review mechanisms instead of media reports to pressure outcomes. Knowing official channels exist for verifying procurement claims, how will you assess future allegations about major government contracts?