The Director General and Chief Executive of the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), Dr. Matthew Adepoju, has reiterated the Agency’s commitment to deploying space technology in addressing climate change challenges to safeguard Nigeria’s future.
Dr. Adepoju made this statement when he received a delegation from Strengthening Peace and Resilience in Nigeria (SPRING) at the Agency’s headquarters in Abuja.
According to him, the devastating impact of climate change is not receiving adequate attention across Africa, stressing that the consequences of neglecting the issue on the continent will ultimately affect the rest of the world.
The NASRDA boss while stating that many of Nigeria’s approaches to environmental challenges are not anchored on scientific evidence and empirical facts, pointed that responses are often directed at the symptoms of problems rather than their root causes, thereby reducing the overall effectiveness of the solutions.
Dr. Adepoju explained that the Agency is intensifying efforts to deploy its satellite operations in tackling climate change, with applications ranging from monitoring deforestation and desertification to tracking weather patterns, flooding, and other environmental risks.
He emphasized that by putting the satellite on the right course, Nigeria will be better equipped with accurate data and solutions to drive informed policies and safeguard communities against the adverse effect of climate change.
Describing SPRING as a friend of the continent, Dr Adepoju pointed that collaborating with the organization represents vital support towards fulfilling NASRDA’s mandate of applying space science and technology to national development.
In his remarks, the leader of SPRING delegation, Mr Ukoha Ukiwo explained that the initiative is designed to promote peace, strengthen resilience, and address the pressing challenges of climate change.
He noted that SPRING is committed to partnering with NASRDA to conduct satellite based studies, generate evidence driven solutions, and provide technical support to enhance the Agency’s capacity.
The courtesy visit between NASRDA and SPRING is expected to open new frontiers for collaboration in tackling climate change while also contributing to peace building and sustainable development in Nigeria.
Below are pictures from the visit:
Written by: Oluwaseun Ajayi
Editor: Kaneng Dagyeng
Media and corporate communications
