He made the statement during a visit to the Agency’s headquarters in Abuja.
Dr. Muhammad said the Agency occupies a strategic position within the Ministry, particularly through its work in space science, satellite technology, communications, Earth observation, mapping, climate monitoring and geospatial applications.
He explained that the visit was not only to engage with the Director General but also to hear directly from the Agency’s directors, scientists and other personnel about their achievements, challenges and expectations from the Ministry.
The Permanent Secretary while commending NASRDA's Director General, assured the Agency that the Ministry would explore available avenues to provide the necessary support, including funding, technology, capacity development and partnerships with relevant institutions within and outside Nigeria.
He expressed optimism that stronger collaboration between the Ministry and NASRDA would create an enabling environment for the Agency to expand its capabilities, address identified challenges and contribute more significantly to Nigeria’s technological advancement.
Dr. Muhammad advocated for more robust commercialisation of space technologies, greater private-sector participation and innovative funding mechanisms to reduce dependence on government budgets.
He suggested exploring dedicated funding for space development, including possible contributions from sectors benefiting from the Agency's services to help position NASRDA as a leading provider of African space solutions.
The Director General and Chief Executive of NASRDA, Dr. Matthew Adepoju, appreciated the Permanent Secretary, for the visit and expressed delight over the opportunity to showcase the Agency's facilities and capabilities.
He said the visit provides the Permanent Secretary with firsthand knowledge of NASRDA's operations, infrastructure and contributions to Nigeria's space programme.
In his presentation, Dr. Adepoju highlighted NASRDA’s achievements, identified key limitations affecting the Agency’s operations, and outlined its expectations from the Ministry to enhance its capacity and strengthen the delivery of its mandate.
He thanked the Permanent Secretary for the engagement, expressing optimism that the visit would strengthen the relationship between NASRDA and the Ministry and enhance the support required for the Agency to deliver on its mandate.
Highlight of the event was the tour of the Agency’s facilities and infrastructure by the Permanent Secretary.
Below are pictures from the event.
Reporter: Ninma Yacim
Editor: Joy Atama-Opaluwa
Photo Credits: Ibrahim Zakari
Media and Corporate Communications NASRDA.
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