The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology,Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji has reaffirmed his determination towards making the Nigeria space science and technology programme a success for the overall benefits of the entire citizenry and for the greatness of Nigeria.
In a statement by the Director, Media and Corporate Communications of the National Space Research and Development Agency(NASRDA), Dr Felix Ale, the Minister was speaking in New York, U.S.A at a sideline meeting with a delegation from Axiom Space at the on-going 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly.
Chief Nnaji explained that Space technologies have an impact on almost all aspects of development, saying it can benefit sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, education, weather forecasting, orbit planning and human Resources.
The Space economy according to him has the potentials to create wealth and drive national development.
Chief Nnaji further emphasized that space technology and applications are fundamental tools for actualising sustainable development across the globe, especially for countries like Nigeria.
While thanking the visiting team from Axiom Space, the Minister said the country is open to collaboration and partnership in the drive towards the effective development of its space programme.
Chief Nnaji explained that the present administration in the country sees the Space sector and indeed the entire innovation, science and technology as strategic in its renewed hope agenda; adding that no stone will be left unturned towards giving it a pride of place for the overall benefits of the good people of Nigeria.
In his contribution, Special Adviser to the President on Technology and Digital Economy, Mr Idris Saliu appreciated the Minister for his passion and determination towards consolidating the nation’s achievements in the critical sector of Space Science and Technology.
He also thanked the visiting team for their presentation, saying their submissions will be critically looked into for possible future collaboration with the National Space Research and Development Agency.
The Director General, National Space Research and Development Agency, Dr Matthew Adepoju thanked the Minister for finding time to preside over the crucial meeting despite his tight schedule at the on-going 79th session of United Nations General Assembly.
He emphasized that the success of the Space Agency will no doubt help to better define and drive innovation and development in the country.
Dr Adepoju who expressed delight in the presentation by Axiom Space representatives assured the Minister of his determination to ensure that NASRDA’S efforts under his leadership will be of great compliment to the noble goals and objectives of the minister in making the entire Innovation, Science and Technology ecosystem in Nigeria a huge success for the benefits of Nigerians.
The leader of the delegation who is also Senior Director, International Government Business of Axiom Space, Mr Garvey Mclntosh had earlier told the minister that Axiom Space is offering Nigeria the unique opportunity to build on its ambitious national space programme as a space faring nation.
He explained that Nigeria is primed to leverage on the anticipated relationship into a burgeoning space industry, thereby positioning itself as a leading space power in Africa.
This according to him entails the effective implementation of its space policy, fostering international collaborations and attracting investment.
In the meantime, Chief Nnaji has also played host to the United Nations special Advisor, Social and Economic Development Permanent Mission of PALAU, Mr Brock Pierce and his team at yet another sideline meeting in New York.
The Minister explained that his decision to positively impact various parastatals under his ministry is not just a priority but a mission that must be accomplished in the life of the present administration under the leadership of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Chief Nnaji told the visiting team not to hesitate in bringing to his attention for deliberation any programme or activities that could engender high level of productivity and excellence in any parastatal under the auspices of the ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Dr Felix Ale,
Media and Corporate Communications.
