Space Enterprise
BRIEF OVERVIEW
Embedded in NASRDA’s mission is the vigorous pursuit of space capabilities to improve the quality of life through advancements in space-related research and development, and capacity building across science, engineering, space enterprise, and administration to drive sustainable national development. In line with this vision, it became essential to establish a department dedicated to fostering collaboration, innovation, and growth in the space sector. Thus, the Space Enterprise Department was born.
Welcome to the Space Enterprise Department, one of the newest and most dynamic departments at NASRDA headquarters. The department is ready to play a vital role in shaping Nigeria’s future in the space industry, driving partnerships, market expansion, and the commercialization of space for sustainable development and economic growth.
Dr Idris Jega
Ag Director
VISION STATEMENT
To position Nigeria as a key player in the global space industry through sustainable and profitable space ventures.
MISSION STATEMENT
To advance the development of Nigeria’s space economy ecosystem by promoting innovation, collaboration, and commercialization of space technologies for the benefit of the nation and the global community.
MANDATES OF THE DEPARTMENT
The Space Enterprise Department is committed to driving the growth and development of Nigeria’s space economy by adopting innovation, promoting commercial applications of space knowledge, and building partnerships across the private and public sectors. In alignment with NASRDA’s mission, the department seeks to create a vibrant ecosystem for space technology commercialization, thereby generating value for all stakeholders and enhancing Nigeria’s position in the global space industry.
Key mandates of the Department shall include, but not limited to the following:
- Establish a Sustainable Space Economy Ecosystem
Develop strategies and frameworks that ensure the long-term sustainability of Nigeria’s space economy, focusing on resource management, innovation incentives, and environmental stewardship.
- Enhance Public Awareness and Branding
Lead initiatives to increase public awareness about the space sector’s potential benefits, thereby building a strong brand for Nigeria’s space enterprise capabilities both locally and globally.
- Build Strategic Partnerships
Establish partnerships with private companies, international space agencies, academia, and other stakeholders to enhance capacity building, technology transfer, and shared resources.
- Encourage Space Industry Collaboration
Act as a liaison between industry players, including startups, established companies, and research institutions, to facilitate a collaborative space ecosystem in Nigeria.
- Promote Market Research and Analysis
Conduct market analysis to identify trends, assess demands, and guide stakeholders on viable opportunities within Nigeria’s space sector.
- Promote Commercialization of Space Technologies
Encourage the commercialization of space-based products and services to stimulate economic growth, create job opportunities, and attract investment in Nigeria’s space sector.
- Adopt Innovation in Space Applications
Support research, development, and innovation in space technologies and applications to address national challenges in agriculture, environment, health, security, and infrastructure.
- Support Policy and Regulatory Development
Work alongside regulatory bodies to influence and align with space policies that support enterprise growth and streamline the entry of commercial space actors into Nigeria’s market.
These mandates collectively support the Space Enterprise Department’s mission to build a thriving, sustainable space economy that contributes to Nigeria’s national development and global competitiveness.
THE DIVISIONS AND UNITS
Three divisions and six units are proposed. The mandates of each Division and unit are also clearly spelled out. The divisions are the Business and Industry Partnerships Division, Market Research and Analysis Division, and Space Promotion and Branding Division. These are shown in the figure below.
Members of Staff
| Name | Degree | Designation | Department | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Agaba Raphael A. | Msc | Principal Scientific Officer | ICT | |
| Araf Muhammad Z. | muhammad.araf@nasrda.gov.ng | Msc | Senior Scientific Officer | ICT |
| Dr. Jude A. Adeleke | jude.adeleke@nasrda.gov.ng | Phd | Assistant Director | ICT |
| Musa Garba | musa.garba@nasrda.gov.ng | Msc | Assistant Chief Scientific Officer | ICT |
| Musa Habibu Bello | habib.mbello@nasrda.gov.ng | Msc | Principal Engineer | ICT |
| Mustapha Kaigama | mustapha.kaigama@nasrda.gov.ng | Msc | Principal Scientific Officer | ICT |