The Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT) has launched a firm defence of its procurement process for the multi-billion-naira NIGCOMSAT-2A and 2B satellite projects, following public scrutiny over alleged bid manipulation.
Responding to a recent media report questioning the integrity of the tendering exercise, the state-owned satellite operator maintained that the selection process was strictly executed in compliance with Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) guidelines and federal regulations.
Key Aspects of the Defence
- Uniform Evaluation Standards: NIGCOMSAT affirmed that all participating bidders were subjected to identical technical, financial, security, and statutory compliance checks, denying claims that the procurement framework was designed to favour specific contractors.
- No Legacy Entitlements: Addressing complaints regarding former contractors who failed to secure contracts, the firm clarified that previous contractual engagements with the state do not grant an automatic advantage or entitlement in future competitive tenders.
- Due Diligence on Partners: Responding to concerns regarding the selection of Hughes Network Systems’ JUPITER platform amidst corporate proceedings involving an affiliate entity, NIGCOMSAT noted that due diligence confirmed the selected vendor’s operational and technical capacity to deliver the required ground infrastructure without disruption.
- Formal Redress Channels: The operator urged aggrieved bidders and stakeholders to utilise statutory administrative review mechanisms rather than airing grievances in the press, while acknowledging the role of investigative journalism in monitoring public spending.
Beyond defending the procurement process, NIGCOMSAT disclosed ongoing internal administrative overhauls. Management revealed it is actively addressing a 17-year-old static salary structure through relevant governmental channels and tightening internal authorization and reimbursement protocols for official assignments.
The procurement of the NIGCOMSAT-2A and NIGCOMSAT-2B satellites remains a central pillar of Nigeria’s national digital strategy, aimed at expanding broadband penetration to underserved regions, reinforcing national security communications, and bolstering domestic broadcasting capabilities.
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