The Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, emphasized the critical role of space technology in driving national growth and addressing global challenges.
Speaking at the 25th Anniversary celebration of the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) in Abuja on Monday, Nnaji highlighted the transformative potential of space technology.
“This anniversary is a celebration of vision, perseverance, and Nigeria’s commitment to harnessing the limitless possibilities of space technology for national development,” he stated.
Nnaji underscored the importance of the sector, noting its potential to generate over 60% of new economic value in Nigeria through space-enabled technology.
He cited projections from the World Economic Forum 2024, which estimate that the global space economy will reach $1.8 trillion by 2035, fueled by advancements in satellite technology.
He further explained how the growth of space technology extends beyond the aerospace sector, influencing industries such as agriculture, supply chain logistics, defence, and digital communication.
“Space technology is no longer an abstract pursuit of exploration,” Nnaji remarked.
“It has become a vital force shaping our daily lives through a complex web of satellite sensors and space-based infrastructure, which are poised to drive even greater transformations in the future,” he contined.
The Minister called for continued investment and innovation in the space sector, emphasizing its pivotal role in tackling issues like climate change, natural resource management, and disaster response, while also positioning Nigeria as a key player in the global space economy.
