The Global Satellite Operators Association (GSOA) has named Jane Nkechi Egerton-Idehen, Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Communications Satellite (NIGCOMSAT), as its new Vice Chair of the Board.
The announcement was made on September 15, 2025, in Paris.
GSOA represents stakeholders across the global satellite industry, including communications and earth observation companies, equipment manufacturers, launch service providers, and ground infrastructure operators.
As part of a new leadership structure, Ali Al Hashemi, CEO of Space Services at Space42, was appointed Chair, while Adel Al-Saleh, CEO of SES, joined Egerton-Idehen as Vice Chair.
GSOA Director General Isabelle Mauro welcomed the appointments, describing them as timely.
“Ali, Adel, and Jane bring unique insights and leadership at a time when global collaboration across the ecosystem is more important than ever. GSOA’s role is to unite the satellite industry to speak with one voice to promote the essential value we bring to society, from emergency response and climate monitoring to universal broadband access,” she stated.
Egerton-Idehen underscored the critical role satellites play in addressing digital inequalities.
“In emerging markets, satellite is often the only viable solution to bridge the digital divide. I am proud to help bring diverse perspectives to the global conversation and support GSOA in promoting inclusive and sustainable connectivity,” she said.
Her selection reflects Nigeria’s rising influence in international digital infrastructure discussions, particularly on expanding affordable internet access.
Meanwhile, industry leaders highlighted how the satellite sector is evolving. Adel Al-Saleh noted: “The satellite industry is going through unprecedented transformation, driven by multi-orbit architectures, cloud integration, and growing demand for low-latency and resilient networks. GSOA’s leadership in helping shape regulatory frameworks and policy dialogue is critical, and I look forward to contributing to this important work.”
Similarly, Hashemi expressed his enthusiasm:
“This is deeply meaningful to me personally and professionally. Having served as Vice Chair of GSOA since 2023, this election reflects the trust and confidence my fellow industry leaders have placed in me and our region’s contributions to global satellite innovation.”
The association pledged to focus on fair spectrum allocation, responsible use of orbital resources, and advocacy for balanced regulatory frameworks.
Jane Egerton-Idehen is a respected technology leader, author, and angel investor with more than 17 years of international experience in telecommunications and satellite communications. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appointed her CEO of NIGCOMSAT in October 2023.
She studied Electronics Engineering at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, earned an MBA from Warwick Business School, and completed executive programs at Harvard Business School and Yale School of Management.
Her professional background includes senior roles at Ericsson, Nokia-Siemens, Avanti Communications, and Meta (Facebook), where she previously served as Head of Sales for the Middle East & Africa.
