In pursuit of one of his fundamental goals since assumption of office, the Director General, National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), Dr. Matthew Adepoju, has said collaborations are essential to fulfilling the Agency’s mandate and delivering economic benefits through Space technology.
He made this statement during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between GeoApps plus limited, which is NASRDA’s commercial arm, and Homo Economicus Limited at the Agency’s headquarters in Abuja.
Dr. Adepoju expressed enthusiasm over the upcoming hot air balloon project with Homo Economicus Limited, highlighting NASRDA’s commitment to fostering public-private partnerships that enhance Nigeria’s space capabilities and generate economic value for the country.
Emphasizing on the vast potential of space science and technology, Dr. Adepoju explained that its benefits to various sectors of the economy are substantial and hold untapped possibilities for national growth.
The NASRDA boss further pointed out that while scientists and engineers focus on innovation and achieving results, partnerships with commercial experts are essential to bringing these inventions to the market, making projects like this a step toward realizing NASRDA’s broader goals.
In his remarks, the Managing Partner of Homo Economicus Limited, Mr. Olatunde Bakre, said, the hot air balloon project will unlock significant potential for both partners while also generating revenue for NASRDA and the Federal Government of Nigeria.
Mr. Bakre while expressing confidence in the collaboration with the space agency, noted that the agency’s capability, competence, and expertise will bring the project to fruition within a short time frame.
According to him, the partnership will allow both parties to explore and expand Nigeria’s space economy, leveraging the project’s potential to discover new avenues for maximizing the benefits of the space industry.
Speaking earlier, the Managing Director of GeoApps Plus Limited, Mr. Emmanuel Onwubuariri, said, with combined efforts, the project will drive innovation and economic growth, thereby unlocking new opportunities and achieving meaningful outcomes that would be beneficial to the country thereby contributing to the socio-economic development of the nation.
Priscilla Harry,Media and Corporate Communications
Below are pictures from the event for your viewing pleasure