Shettima Hails Starlink-NEMA Partnership as SpaceX Donates Emergency Communication Equipment

Vice President Kashim Shettima has commended the partnership between the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and SpaceX’s Starlink, describing it as a major boost to Nigeria’s emergency response and disaster management efforts.

Shettima gave the commendation on Tuesday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja while receiving a delegation from NEMA and SpaceX, led by NEMA Director-General, Hajiya Zubaida Umar.

The Vice President praised SpaceX for donating specialised communication equipment to the agency, noting that reliable communication remains critical during emergencies, natural disasters, and rescue operations.

According to him, the collaboration will strengthen NEMA’s operational capacity by improving response times and coordination during emergency interventions across the country.

“Communication is at the heart of effective emergency management. During disasters such as floods and other crises, partnerships like this can make a significant difference in saving lives and delivering timely assistance,” Shettima said.

He also assured SpaceX that the donated equipment would be effectively deployed and utilised by NEMA personnel at designated locations nationwide.

Earlier, NEMA Director-General Zubaida Umar expressed appreciation to SpaceX’s Starlink for donating high-speed satellite internet hardware and data plans to support the agency’s disaster management operations.

She disclosed that the donation consists of 91 standard and mini communication units, which will help address connectivity challenges in remote and underserved communities where emergency response efforts are often hampered by poor telecommunications infrastructure.

According to Umar, some of the equipment will be deployed to 50 identified disaster flashpoints across the country, while others will be used to upgrade NEMA’s command-and-control centre to enhance coordination and response capabilities.

Speaking on behalf of SpaceX Starlink, Mr Peter Kroetger commended Nigeria’s efforts in disaster preparedness and emergency management despite challenges associated with technology adoption and integration.

He expressed confidence in NEMA’s operational structure and preparedness framework, describing them as essential for the effective deployment of Starlink’s communication technology in emergency situations.

Also present at the meeting were NEMA’s Director of Information and Communication Technology, Justin Uwazuruonye; Director of Search and Rescue, Air Commodore B.A. Usman; and Mary Owolabi of SpaceX, among other officials.