The Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umoh Bassey Eno, has described the 2025 Top Management Retreat of the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) as a timely and strategic initiative poised to redefine the Agency’s role in national development through space science and technology.
Governor Eno made this statement during the opening ceremony of the retreat held at the scenic Ibom Hotels and Golf Resort, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
Represented by the Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, the Governor emphasized that gatherings of this nature provide a robust platform for introspection, goal setting, and the critical analysis of global scientific trends with a view to localizing innovation for Nigeria’s benefit.
According to the Governor, the theme of the retreat, “NASRDA Beyond the Horizon: Building a Resilient Workforce for Space Economy and National Security,” speaks volumes about the Agency’s commitment to workforce development and the strategic positioning of its human capital in driving Nigeria’s space ambitions.
Pastor Eno commended NASRDA’s accomplishments, noting that its reputation as one of Africa’s leading space agencies with a history of successful satellite launches has earned the Agency both national pride and global recognition.
He further stated that in light of Nigeria’s prevailing security challenges, NASRDA’s satellite technologies are crucial assets for surveillance, intelligence gathering, and real-time tracking of criminal elements including bandits, insurgents, and kidnappers.
Highlighting the rapid pace of global technological advancement, the Governor urged the Agency to intensify efforts in building indigenous capacity that can propel Nigeria into the forefront of the global digital and space economy.
He affirmed that such efforts align seamlessly with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda aimed at fast-tracking sustainable national development.
Governor Eno concluded his remarks by pledging the full support of the Akwa Ibom State Government to initiatives that promote scientific innovation and national security through space technology.
The retreat, which brought together NASRDA’s top management, experts, and stakeholders from across the nation, is envisioned as a strategic turning point in reshaping the Agency’s future and strengthening Nigeria’s presence in the global space ecosystem.
Written by: Daniel Abdullahi
Edited by: Kaneng Dagyeng
Media and Corporate Communications
