President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the development of a new space centre and key institutional reforms for Nigeria’s space sector, following a meeting of the National Space Council chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
The approvals mark a significant milestone in the Federal Government’s efforts to reposition Nigeria’s space programme for greater technological advancement and economic impact.
Foremost among the decisions is the approval for the development and operationalisation of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Space Centre for Transport and Propulsion in Epe, Lagos State. The proposed centre is expected to strengthen Nigeria’s capabilities in space transportation services and propulsion systems, while opening new frontiers for research, innovation and commercial participation within the global space economy.
The Council also approved the Staff Regulations and Conditions of Service for the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA). The reform is aimed at strengthening the agency’s institutional framework, improving staff welfare, and addressing the persistent challenge of brain drain among highly trained space scientists and engineers.
In addition, the Council constituted a Working Group to review and update Nigeria’s 25-Year Space Roadmap. The committee comprises representatives from NASRDA, the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the Defence Space Administration (DSA), the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), NigComSat Limited, as well as three distinguished space scientists and engineers. The review is expected to align Nigeria’s long-term space strategy with emerging global trends and national development priorities.
Secretary of the National Space Council and Director General of NASRDA, Dr. Matthew Olumide Adepoju, congratulated President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima on the landmark achievements. He also commended the Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Kingsley Udeh, SAN, and members of the Council for their commitment to advancing Nigeria’s space agenda.
Adepoju further praised NASRDA staff for their dedication and professionalism, noting that the approvals reflected confidence in their tireless efforts to position Nigeria as a competitive and forward-looking space-faring nation.
