[Satellite TODAY 09-15-09] SES World Skies signed a multiyear, two-transponder agreement with Galaxy Backbone, a public enterprise of the federal government of Nigeria, to deliver a range of information and communication technology services to rural and remote government offices, schools and hospitals in communities throughout all 36 Nigerian states via the Astra 2B satellite, SES World Skies announced Sept. 14.
    The contracted capacity aims to enable Galaxy Backbone to offer broadband, long distance learning, telemedicine and videoconferencing services out of mobile, solar-powered vehicles that take to the streets of rural towns and villages.
    “Demand for connectivity is spreading across Nigeria at levels we’ve never seen before, much of it driven by the huge economic growth in the country,” said Martin Ahachi, CTO of Galaxy Backbone, in a statement.
    Financial details of the contract were not disclosed.

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