The Director General and Chief Executive, National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), Dr. Matthew Adepoju, has described space law as a critical driver of Nigeria’s future in the global space ecosystem, emphasizing that a strong legal framework is essential for sustainable national development in the sector.
He made this known while declaring open the 4th Nigerian National Rounds of the Manfred Lachs Space Law Moot Court Competition, held at the Agency’s headquarters in Abuja.
Dr. Adepoju explained that the hybrid nature of the competition reflects the evolving field of space law, which is rooted in terrestrial legal systems while extending into the complexities of outer space, adding that the discipline continues to gain relevance as Nigeria advances the implementation of its Space Roadmap.
He stated that the development of Nigeria’s Space sector goes beyond technological achievements, stressing that issues such as space sovereignty, liability in orbit, and the legal and ethical dimensions of resource management require a new generation of legal experts equipped to shape policy and uphold international standards.
The NASRDA boss highlighted the growth of the competition over the past four years, describing it as a pointer to Nigeria’s rising intellectual capacity in space law, and commended the Agency’s Legal Department for sustaining a platform that bridges technical innovation with legal scholarship.
Dr. Adepoju also charged participating students to demonstrate critical thinking, strong advocacy, and a deep understanding of international space treaties, while expressing confidence in their ability to represent Nigeria at regional and global stages.
In his remarks, the Acting Director, Legal Services, Barr. Isa Yahaya, expressed appreciation to the Director General for his prompt approval, which made the competition possible.
He added that the competition provides a valuable platform for student lawyers to develop into professionals in the field, urging them to embrace space law as a promising and rewarding area of legal practice.
The competition features participants from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, University of Calabar, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Iife, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, University of Benin, and Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.
The two top teams will advance to the African regional rounds in South Africa, with the opportunity to proceed to the global stage thereafter.
Below are pictures from the event.
Reporter: Ninma Yacim
Editor: Joy Opaluwa
Media and Corporate Communications
