The Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Uche Unaji, has unveiled the government’s plans to deploy space observation satellites to monitor various activities within Nigeria. Speaking at the commissioning of the Advanced Unmanned Aerial Vehicles Laboratory (AUVAL) in Abuja, Unaji praised the contributions of the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), NICOMSAT, and the Defence Space Administration in advancing the satellite initiative.
The Minister also revealed that the government will soon begin regulating and licensing activities across all sectors of the space industry, including upstream, mainstream, and downstream, to further strengthen Nigeria’s space capabilities.
Unaji expressed gratitude to President Ahmed Bola Tinubu for his continued support of Nigeria’s science and technology sector, highlighting the importance of securing the country’s space activities, just as other nations have done.
He emphasized the value of collaboration between the three key agencies, noting that they each play vital roles, particularly in the military and national security. He also pointed out the potential revenue-generating opportunities that satellite monitoring offers, especially with the influx of ships, which can only be monitored effectively through space-based technology.
Dr. Matthew Olumide Adepoju, Director General of NASRDA, highlighted the agency’s significant research breakthroughs. However, he noted that the main challenge now is translating these discoveries into marketable products and services that can provide both economic benefits and enhance national security.
Chichebe Akachukwu, Director and Coordinator of the Mandilla Laboratory, shared that the agency is operating in line with Executive Order 5, which encourages Nigerians to develop and produce solutions locally. He added, “Most of the equipment we use is locally manufactured. Nigeria has abundant raw materials, and we harness these to create final products. Our electronics are also designed and produced in Nigeria.”
