Space Technology Is Key To Unlocking Nigeria’s Future Potential – Nnaji
Princess-Ekwi Ajide
The Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, has described space technology as the cornerstone of Nigeria’s national growth and a transformative force in solving global challenges.
Speaking at the 25th Anniversary celebration of the National Space Research and Development Agency, NASRDA in Abuja, Nnaji emphasised the critical role of space advancements in shaping the nation’s future, saying the celebration is a testament to vision, perseverance, and Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to unlocking the limitless possibilities of space technology for national development.
Chief Nnaji stressed that space technology holds solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges, including climate change, natural resource management, and disaster response.
With the global space economy projected to reach $1.8 trillion by 2035, as perthe World Economic Forum 2024 report, Nigeria is poised to capture significant economic value.
The Minister revealed that over 60% of new economic opportunities in the country could stem from space-enabled technologies.
He underscored the wide-reaching influence of space advancements, extending beyond aerospace to revolutionise industries such as agriculture, defense, logistics, and digital communication.
According to him space technology is no longer a distant dream of exploration; it is a silent force shaping our daily lives through a sophisticated network of satellites and infrastructure.
The Minister lauded NASRDA the Defense Space Administration, and the Nigerian Communication Satellite Limited for their collective efforts in organising the anniversary event while noting that their collaboration symbolises the teamwork needed to drive Nigeria’s success in the space sector.
As Nigeria continues its journey towards harnessing the vast potential of space technology, Chief Nnaji’s remarks reflect a commitment to leveraging innovation to tackle challenges and position the nation as a leader in the global space economy.