Stop privatisation of NigComSat, ex-MD tells Buhari 

A former Managing Director of the Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited, Mr. Timasaniyu Ahmed-Rufai, has asked the new administration of President Mohammadu Buhari to discontinue with the plan by the Federal Government to privatise the company.

In a statement made available to journalists in Abuja yesterday, Ahmed-Rufai said selling the satellite infrastructure to private sector operators would have negative implications on the country’s national security.

He added that it was also wrong for the Federal Government to propose the sale of a satellite that was under a lien since the country had not finished paying the company that constructed the space craft.

“I will like to advise the new government to revisit the intended privatisation of NigComSat. It has huge security implications which will be counterproductive.

“Besides, the country has not finished paying the loan element and thus has no right to sell it. Previous National Security Advisers had advised against the sale of the asset. Government may wish to reserve it for defence and security communications.

“NigComSat C band antenna can be used for missile guidance system. It is a tracking antenna fitted with auto synchronous motor assembly. This is one feature that makes sale security sensitive.”

NigComSat workers recently petitioned the former Minister of Communications Technology, Mrs. Omobola Johnson, over the proposed sale of the company and alleged impending sacking of 150 staff of the organisation.