On Thursday, Senate President Godswill Akpabio reaffirmed the National Assembly’s steadfast support for the National Space Research and Development Agency, characterising the organisation as essential to tackling Nigeria’s socioeconomic and security issues.
Represented by Senator Samson Ekong (Akwa Ibom South), Akpabio made the pledge during NASRDA’s 2025 Top Management Retreat held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
Dr. Felix Ale, the Director of Media and Corporate Communications at NASRDA, made his comments in a statement released in Abuja.
Akpabio stressed that NASRDA lies at the core of efforts to devise lasting solutions to Nigeria’s complex issues, particularly in security and economic development.
He underlined the essential need for ongoing investment in space science and technology to guarantee Nigeria remains competitive in the global knowledge economy.
“Space-based technologies now underpin key socio-economic systems worldwide,” he observed. “Nigeria must not be left behind. Adequate resources must be allocated to this critical sector.”
He further called for enhanced collaboration between NASRDA and the legislature, highlighting the importance of leveraging the agency’s technological capabilities for real-time surveillance and monitoring of security threats in ungoverned regions.
In a goodwill message, Akwa Ibom State Governor Pastor Umo Eno, represented by his deputy Senator Akon Eyakenyi, commended NASRDA for organising the retreat, describing it as timely and strategic. He urged the agency to intensify capacity-building efforts to align with national development priorities.
Also addressing the event, Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology Chief Uche Nnaji, represented by Dr Robert Ngwu, lauded the retreat’s theme as “visionary.”
Nnaji added that space technology has become a vital platform for asserting national sovereignty and economic resilience.
In his closing remarks, NASRDA Director General Dr Matthew Adepoju reaffirmed the agency’s dedication to delivering space-based solutions through indigenous expertise.
“This retreat is about setting a new course, enhancing internal capacity, and strategically repositioning NASRDA for greater impact,” he stated.
