The National Space Council, chaired by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has approved major initiatives aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s space programme and expanding its strategic capabilities.
The meeting, held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Tuesday, endorsed the development and operationalisation of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Space Centre for Transport and Propulsion in Epe, Lagos State. The new facility is expected to boost Nigeria’s capacity in space transport systems and propulsion technologies, while also stimulating economic growth through research, innovation and industry partnerships.
The Council also approved the Staff Regulations and Conditions of Service for the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), a move described as a critical step toward strengthening the agency’s institutional framework and enhancing staff welfare and morale.
In addition, a high-level Working Group was constituted to review and update Nigeria’s 25-Year Space Roadmap. The committee will comprise representatives from key government agencies and leading space experts, with a mandate to realign the country’s long-term space strategy with emerging global trends and national development priorities.
Director General of NASRDA, Dr. Matthew Olumide Adepoju, described the approvals as significant milestones for the nation’s space ambitions. He commended President Tinubu for his leadership and congratulated members of the Council, including the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Kingsley Udeh, SAN, for their commitment to advancing Nigeria’s space agenda.
Adepoju also praised NASRDA staff for their dedication, noted that the latest decisions by the Council reflected confidence in the agency’s ongoing efforts to position Nigeria as a key player in the global space sector.
The approvals mark what officials describe as a renewed push to deepen technological innovation and enhance Nigeria’s competitiveness in the rapidly evolving global space industry.
