President Bola Tinubu called on lawmakers to prioritise increased funding and reforms for Nigeria’s space sector, emphasising its pivotal role in the nation’s socio-economic development and leadership in Africa’s space industry.
Speaking at the 25th-anniversary celebration of the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) held at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja, Tinubu highlighted the need for robust investment to ensure Nigeria remains competitive in the global space arena.
Represented by Uche Nnaji, Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, he stressed the importance of leveraging space technologies to enhance national development and attract international collaboration.
“I am glad that members of the legislature are here to celebrate this milestone.
I call on our legislatures to prioritise funding for our space programme to ensure Nigeria plays a leading role in this fourth industrial revolution,” Tinubu said.
He also advocated strengthening the NASRDA Act to foster a vibrant space ecosystem, locally and internationally, adding, “Improved budgetary support will empower the sector to accomplish its goals, yielding massive socio-economic dividends and solidifying Nigeria’s position as a leading space-faring nation in Africa.”
President Tinubu commended the foresight of Nigeria’s early leaders, whose vision led to the establishment of NASRDA in 1999, marking the country’s entry into global space exploration.
“Space was once the exclusive domain of major global powers, with Africa, particularly sub-Saharan nations, sidelined.
However, our founding leaders recognised the vital role we could play,” he said.
Tinubu acknowledged the continued support of successive administrations, noting their contributions to NASRDA’s achievements over the past 25 years.
From advancements in Earth observation to revolutionising communication and navigation systems, the President underscored the indispensability of space technologies in addressing national challenges.
“Space is an area of limitless opportunities.
Advanced countries are harnessing these opportunities for their advantage.
Nigeria must not lag in this global quest, as the knowledge gained from space exploration can address many of our internal challenges,” Tinubu said.
The President reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the space programme, stating that, as Chairman of the Space Council, he would accelerate efforts to position Nigeria as a leader in Africa’s space initiatives and foster international partnerships.
Director-General of NASRDA, Dr. Mathew Adepoju, outlined the agency’s three-point agenda aimed at enhancing global competitiveness.
He emphasised cutting-edge research, workforce development, and private-sector collaboration to build a thriving space economy.
“Public-private partnerships are key to unlocking the vast opportunities in the space sector.
Our goal is to ensure that Nigeria’s space programme contributes meaningfully to global challenges, from climate change to technological advancements,” Adepoju stated.
Managing Director of the Nigerian Communications Satellite (NigComSat), Nkechi Egerton-Idehen, called for sustained investment and collaboration among agencies to maximise the sector’s potential.
“As we reflect on past achievements, this occasion challenges us to look ahead.
The global space industry is evolving rapidly, and the opportunities are boundless.
Sustained investment and robust policy support are critical to driving economic growth and fostering security,” Egerton-Idehen said.
The event featured the unveiling of a 400-page compendium documenting NASRDA’s achievements over 25 years and recognition of key international partners, including the United States, China, India, and the United Kingdom.
As Nigeria celebrates this milestone, stakeholders expressed optimism for a brighter future in space exploration, with a focus on innovation, international collaboration, and national development.
