AWC Statehouse Desk
Abuja — March 4, 2026
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to harnessing space technology as a driver of human development, technological advancement, and economic diversification.
Speaking at the First National Space Council Meeting, the President described outer space as both a challenge and a strategic platform for the effective exploration and management of Nigeria’s natural resources, as well as the protection of the environment.
“Space technology remains the foundation for cybersecurity and a vibrant digital economy,” President Tinubu stated. “The space economy is rapidly growing and is expected to exceed one trillion dollars by 2040. When we invest in space, we are not funding a distant dream.”
He explained that investments in the sector would strengthen precision agriculture, enhance border security, support early warning systems against floods and fires, promote smarter cities, ensure safer skies, and bolster communications infrastructure.
Directive on Space Regulation
President Tinubu urged the nation’s space agency to remain steadfast in its mandate of ensuring responsible utilisation of space assets and resources over Nigeria. He directed the agency to deploy all legally available means to enforce space regulations and spectrum management in line with the provisions of the NASDRA Act.
He further instructed all Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), stakeholders, and the private sector to comply strictly with the existing regulatory framework. The President also called for the timely release of approved funds by the Federal Ministry of Finance to support space-related initiatives.
Landmark Outcomes
Briefing journalists after the meeting, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Mr. Kingsley Udeh, described the council session—chaired by the Vice President on behalf of the President—as historic, noting that it produced landmark decisions aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s space industry.
Among the approvals granted was the adoption of new Conditions of Service and Staff Regulations for the Nigerian Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) to align with international best practices. The Minister said the move would ensure competitive remuneration, helping Nigeria retain skilled professionals within its space ecosystem.
The Council also approved the establishment of a working group of experts to revise Nigeria’s 25-year space programme roadmap. The working group will comprise representatives from NASRDA, the Nigerian Communications Commission, the National Defence Space Agency, and the Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited, alongside other key stakeholders.
Bola Ahmed Tinubu Space Centre
In a major boost to Nigeria’s space ambition, the Council approved the development and operationalisation of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Space Centre in Ekpe. According to the Minister, the facility will provide Nigeria with the capacity to launch satellites into orbit and reduce dependence on foreign expertise for hosting and maintaining satellites.
Officials say the outcomes of the meeting signal a renewed push to position Nigeria as a competitive player in the rapidly expanding global space economy, while leveraging space science and technology to address national development priorities.
