Nigeria marked a major milestone on Monday, November 25, celebrating 25 years of progress in space science and technology in what the nation’s Tech Minister describes as “historic.”

During the event in Abuja, Uche Nnaji, the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, acknowledges the contributions of several organisations that have played a key role in the country’s advancement in space science.

Over the years, the Minister says, Nigeria has made significant strides, including upgrading its satellites, improving regulatory oversight, and utilising space technology to enhance national security and boost revenue.

Minister: Beyond connectivity, space services drive innovations in health agriculture and other sectors in Nigeria

“These achievements represent a vital progression from the milestones attained over the past 25 years,” according to Nnaji who lists other milestones including the approval of the National Space Policy in 2001, the launch of NigeriaSat-1 in 2003, the signing of the contract for NigeriaSat-2, and the adoption of the 25-year roadmap for Space, Science, and Technology.

“The historic launch of NigComSat-1 in 2007 positioned Nigeria as a leader in satellite communication technology in Africa, while the signing of the NASRDA Act in 2010 established a robust legal framework for space activities,” according to the Innovation, Science, and Technology Minister.

The successes achieved over the past 25 years, the Minister says, are the result of effectively leveraging space capabilities to support national development and enhance global competitiveness.

In a statement, Dr Matthew Adepoju, Director-General of National Space Research & Development Agency (NASRDA), commends Nigeria’s leadership in Africa’s space science and technology.

“As we celebrate, we honour the dedication and innovation that have brought us this far and look forward to an even brighter future for Nigeria in space science, technology, and innovation,” he says.

Thinking forward, while Nigeria’s technological landscape is undergoing significant transformation, the Federal Government is also aiming for even greater milestones by fostering private-sector partnerships to drive innovation. These partnerships will focus on advancing satellite technologies, harnessing space-based resources, investing in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) ventures, and promoting industrial growth through technology transfer, according to Nnaji. “These efforts will drive economic transformation and solidify Nigeria’s position as a leader in the global space economy.”

The Minister identifies that satellites, a key aspect of space technology, play a crucial role in enabling internet coverage, live television, phone calls, and video conferencing. In addition to connectivity, Nnaji says that space technology as a whole is also driving innovations in healthcare, agriculture, and the global financial market.

Nigeria’s 25th anniversary in space reflects the country’s commitment to making space technology a crucial part of national development. “It is a great advantage that Nigeria is actively participating in the growing space economy,” the Minister says.