Space-based internet for resilient infrastructure: a hybrid approach for Nigeria’s digital future

Nigeria is undergoing a rapid digital transformation, but challenges of limited infrastructure, climate risks, and urban-rural inequality persist. Fiber optic expansion has connected urban centers, yet vast rural communities remain unserved or underserved. At the same time, terrestrial infrastructure remains vulnerable to disruptions such as fiber cuts, flooding, or security threats. This paper proposes a hybrid network model that integrates terrestrial fiber with space-based internet, primarily through low earth orbit (LEO) satellites, to enhance resilience, inclusivity, and sustainability. We present use cases across education, health, agriculture, and national security, discuss regulatory and policy considerations, and outline a roadmap for Nigeria’s adoption between 2025 and 2030. By bridging technology, policy, and academia, Nigeria can position itself as a continental leader in digital resilience.