The Honourable Minister, Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology (FMIST) Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji has applauded the robust rocketry programme of an activity center of the National Space Research and Development Agency, the Centre for Space Transport and Propulsion (CSTP), in Epe, Lagos State.
The Honourable Minister made the remarks during an official visit to the facility of the Center in Epe, Lagos State.
Chief Nnaji who appreciated the management of the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) for the warm reception accorded during the visit, explained that the exploits of the centre are critical to the actualization of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the present administration, particularly in the area of security.
According to him, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appreciates result-oriented initiatives that can advance the development of science and technology in the country.
The minister pledged the ministry’s support, especially in the area of proper funding, adding that efforts must be intensified to establish a launch pad for satellites and rockets that can keep pace with international standards.
Chief Nnaji, who was elated with the activities of the center, however, identified underfunding as one of its major challenges.
He said that, as one of the centres of excellence of the Space Agency, efforts must be made to expand its capacity and ensure proper funding of its activities because of its relevance and strategic posture. Speaking earlier during the visit, the Director General and Chief Executive of NASRDA, Dr. Halilu Ahmad Shaba described the Minister’s visit as strategic especially at a time when emphasis in the international system is channelled towards the development of space science and technology, because of its attendant benefits.
The NASRDA Boss who appreciated the Minister’s visit, called on the management of the centre to channel its resources towards the commercialization of spinoff products, which, according to him, will be a veritable source of revenue generation for the Agency and the country at large.
Dr. Shaba charged members of staff at the centre to engage in effective publicity mechanisms that will help to sensitize members of the public to the great exploits at the Center for Space Transport and Proportion.
The NASRDA boss, who took the minister on a tour of facilities at the centres called for support from the Ministry and relevant stakeholders for the actualization of the Nigerian Space programme.
In his welcome address, the Centre Director, Dr. Olusegun Sholiyi described the Honourable Minister’s visit as homecoming, saying ,the unique occasion has provided a platform for advocacy on the need to expand the capacity and operational activities of the centre.
Dr Sholiyi called for proper funding of the centre’s activities which according to him, will go a long way in redefining the country’s developmental strides, especially in the field of space science and technology.
The Centre for Space Transport and Propulsion is one of the centres of excellence of the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA).
The mandate of the Centre revolves around research and development, especially in the area of rocketry and other propulsion systems, using various types of fueling systems.
Daniel Abdullahi
For Media and corporate communications
Below are pictures from the visit:
