The Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, has said President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, approved for the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) to mainstream the national economy through space regulation and supervision of the nations spectrum.

He made this revelation during a landmark stakeholders’ workshop on “Sensitization and Engagement of Stakeholders on the Commencement of Space Regulation, Spectrum Management, and Licensing in Nigeria” held at NASRDA’S Headquarters in Abuja.

The Minister while emphasizing that space, science and technology have become the cornerstone of modern economies, charged stakeholders and experts to build an ecosystem capable of driving innovations that will address the nation’s pressing challenges.

He noted that the Ministry of Innovation Science and Technology in conjunction with NASRDA, is working vigorously on a comprehensive review of the National Space Policy to capture and address critical areas of space science and technology within and beyond Nigeria.

Chief Nnaji commended the leadership of NASRDA, led by its Director General and Chief Executive, Dr. Matthew Adepoju, for the successful design and launch of the Space Regulation, Spectrum Management, and Licensing initiative inline with its mandate.

According to him, this initiative will not only serve as a revenue stream for the nation but will also provide proper monitoring of space-based activities vital to security and national development.

In his remarks, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Science and Technology, Senator Aminu Iya Abbas, described the official commencement of space regulatory activities as a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s space exploration journey.

He applauded NASRDA’s strategic drive urging the Agency to continue turning policies into tangible outcomes that impact the lives of Nigerians.

In his welcome address, the Director General and Chief Executive, NASRDA, Dr. Matthew Adepoju said the commencement of Space Regulation, Spectrum Management, and Licensing marks a significant milestone towards building a fully regulated and commercially viable space industry in Nigeria.

Dr. Adepoju stated that this effort aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu and supports the broader national goals of security and economic growth.

He emphasized that the rapidly growing space industry, with its expanding satellite and space-based infrastructure, is reshaping global communications, business, and national defense.

According to him, space regulation is not only about oversight but also about creating jobs, fostering innovation, ensuring national security, and generating sustainable revenue.

Dr. Adepoju also expressed deep appreciation to the Honourable Minister for his visionary leadership, describing him as a beacon of excellence whose foresight and commitment have not only elevated the agency, but also charted a path of national pride and global relevance.

Speaking at the event, the pioneer Director General of NASRDA, Senator (Prof.) Robert Ajayi Boroffice, OON, commended Dr. Adepoju for ushering in a new era in the Agency’s history.

He called for continued support from experts and stakeholders to ensure that Nigeria fully reaps the benefits of its investments in space science and technology.

Delivering the keynote address, renowned Engineer and technocrat, Dr. Umar Bindir, highlighted the imperativeness of space regulations to national development.

He recommended strategic measures including innovation-market linkage, focused R&D, comprehensive research database, in alignment with the national development agenda.

Legal luminary and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Dr. Olisa Agbakoba, also lent his voice to the discourse, noting that the success of any space program hinges on a robust legislative and operational framework.

He advocated for the urgent review and redesign of the National Space Policy to close existing regulatory gaps and create an enabling environment for growth.

The high points of the event were the unveiling of NASRDA’s new logo by the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, the launch of the Space Regulation Registration Portal, and handover of new additional studio equipments for NSTI television and the unveiling of a symbolic rocket prototype monument by the Honourable Minister.

Below are pictures from the event for your viewing pleasure.

Daniel Abdullahi
Media and Corporate Communications