On December 15, 2004, China Great Wall Industry Corporation (CGWIC) and Nigeria’s National Space Research and Development Agency (NSRDA) signed a contract in Abuja, Nigeria for in-orbit delivery of the NigcomSat-1 communications satellite. The contract stipulates that CGWIC will deliver a DFH-4 platform-based satellite fitted with multiple-band transponders to provide Nigeria with a range of telecommunications, broadcast and broadband services. NigcomSat-1 will be launched aboard an LM-3B launch vehicle from the Xichang Satellite Launch Centre. Two ground stations in Abujia, Nigeria and Kashi, China will provide satellite operations support services, and China will also help to train Nigerian technical personnel.
This cooperation program with Nigeria marks the first time that China is to provide commercial satellite in-orbit delivery services to an international customer with a complete package of Chinese launch services, satellite and ground systems. The signing of the contract sets an important milestone for China’s satellite export business, and will further strengthen the international competitiveness of China’s space industry, and broaden the scope for the peaceful application of space technology.
In May 2004, CGWIC took part in the international bid for MigcomSat-1 by the NSRDA, and won the competition for the contract. This program will assist CGWIC in becoming one of a limited number of aerospace suppliers that are able to provide an entire package of launch services, satellite and ground systems.