The Director General and Chief Executive of the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), Dr. Mathew Olumide Adepoju, has stated that the newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between NASRDA and the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) will serve as a strategic foundation for expanding research in astronomy, astrophysics, space science, artificial intelligence, and other emerging technological fields.

Dr. Adepoju made this known during the official signing of the MoU between NASRDA and ESUT held at the university’s administrative building in Agbani, Enugu State.

The NASRDA helmsman said the partnership would enable the establishment of a NASRDA laboratory at ESUT, adding that the facility will spur scientific breakthroughs, boost Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem, and support national development, especially through solutions that address insecurity.

While receiving the NASRDA delegation, the ESUT Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Aloysius Okolie, expressed excitement over the collaboration, assuring the Agency of the university’s immediate readiness to commence implementation.

He pledged the provision of adequate land and facilities for the new laboratory, stating that he did not want the opportunity to pass his institution by.

The Director of the Centre for Basic Space Science (CBSS), Nsukka, Dr. Bonaventure Okere, described the event as the fulfillment of long-standing efforts to strengthen academic–research linkages, adding that the realization of the MoU was God’s will.

Also speaking, the Director, Physical and Life Sciences of the Agency, Prof. Benjamin Ayantunji, commended Dr. Adepoju for his hands-on leadership approach, noting that his doggedness significantly contributed to the success and formalization of the partnership.

Below are pictures from the event.

Written by: Oladele Oge
Editor: Joy Opaluwa
Media and Corporate Communications Department