President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged the National Assembly to prioritise funding for Nigeria’s space programme.
This, according to the President, would ensure that Nigeria maintains a leading role in the fourth industrial revolution.
Tinubu stated this on Monday, through the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, at an event marking 25 years of Nigeria in space and technology,
He emphasised the importance of strengthening the legislative framework for the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA).
“There is a need to strengthen the Act that established NASRDA to help the Nigerian space ecosystem become more vibrant in its local and international engagements,” the President said.
Tinubu highlighted the role of the private sector in advancing Nigeria’s space ambitions, calling for its integration into the heart of the national program.
“Great effort should be made to ensure that the private sector is mainstreamed into the heart of our space program to maximize opportunities for national development,” he said.
He further urged lawmakers to provide increased budgetary support for NASRDA, noting that the agency’s work has the potential to yield massive socioeconomic dividends.
“The sector requires improved budgetary support to accomplish its programs. This will solidify Nigeria’s standing as a leading space-faring country in Africa and boost its competitiveness in attracting foreign direct investment,” Tinubu added.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s achievements in space science, Tinubu commended NASRDA’s efforts in capacity building and satellite development.
“In the quest to bring the benefits of space to national development, NASRDA has developed and launched major space programs, including building indigenous capacity in space science and producing and launching satellites for socioeconomic and environmental services,” he said.
