The Director General and Chief Executive of the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), Dr Matthew Adepoju, has reaffirmed his commitment to teamwork, reform, and institutional excellence as management and staff of the Agency celebrated him in a surprised birthday at the Agency Headquarters in Abuja.
The event, marked by heartfelt goodwill and joyful atmosphere, provided an opportunity for reflection on leadership, collective responsibility, and the Agency’s ongoing reform initiatives.
Responding to the gesture, Dr. Adepoju expressed profound appreciation to the NASRDA family, describing the celebration as both humbling and motivating.
He emphasized that the achievements recorded under his leadership are products of collective effort, rather than individual accomplishment.
Stressing that “a tree does not make a forest,” the Director General highlighted the critical role of unity, cooperation, and shared vision in driving sustainable institutional growth.
Dr. Adepoju who stated that transformational change is often misunderstood, pointed that decisive measures designed to strengthen systems and reposition institutions may not always attract popular support, particularly when such decisions affect even close associates.
He further maintained that principled leadership requires consistency in upholding policies and programmes to ensure order, discipline, and long-term stability.
According to him, the ongoing strategic restructuring within the Agency is a deliberate step toward enhancing operational efficiency, strengthening institutional capacity, and positioning NASRDA for greater national impact.
Some Directors present at the event lauded Dr. Adepoju for his sacrifices and firm commitment to the Agency’s growth, describing his leadership as transformational and expressing optimism that his legacy of reform would endure.
Speaking earlier, the Special Adviser to the Director General on Technical Matters and also the Acting Director Space Enterprise, Dr. Idris Jega, extended his warm wishes for Dr. Adepoju’s continued good health, wisdom, and strength as he marks another year of impactful service; while commending his visionary, results-driven leadership and steadfast dedication to duty.
He highlighted that the Dr Adepoju is truly worthy of celebration for his inclusive approach and commitment to fostering teamwork, noting that under his leadership, staff have been given the opportunity to showcase their work, an approach that has empowered them and contributed significantly to their professional growth.
Also speaking, the Group Managing Director of Skytrek Balloon Nigeria Limited, Dr. Bakare Olatunde, commended the strides recorded within a short period under Dr Adepoju’s stewardship, noting that his administration has brought renewed clarity, focus, and direction to the Agency.
The highlights of the celebration were the cutting of the birthday cake and presentation of gifts by Media and Public Relations magnate Chief Alaba Yusuf, a longtime associate of the Director General.
Gifts were also presented on behalf of the DG’s Aides by the Special Adviser on Administrative Matters, Mrs Mosunmola Olufisoye.
The ceremony concluded on a celebratory note, reinforcing a shared commitment among staff and leadership and the sustained advancement of NASRDA’s mandate in Nigeria’s space and technology development.
Written by: Alexandra Oladipo
Editor: Joy Opaluwa
Media and Corporate Communications
