The Federal Government has identified space technology and exploration as essential to Nigeria’s growth, security, and ability to tackle global challenges.
This is as Nigeria signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the South American country to enhance cooperation in space science and technology.
The Director of Media and Corporate Communications at the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), Dr. Felix Ale, made the disclosure in a statement on Wednesday.
He stated that President Bola Tinubu made the remarks during his state visit to Brazil, where
The agreement, signed by Nigeria’s Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, and Brazil’s Science Minister, Mrs. Luciana Santos, was witnessed by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.
Nnaji noted that space technology was no longer a luxury but a necessity for national prosperity and security, citing its role in tackling climate change, food insecurity, disaster management, and digital transformation.
The MoU represents a shared vision. Space technology offers Africa and Latin America a powerful tool to leapfrog into the future economy,” Nnaji said.
He added that under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Nigeria aims to leverage satellites, rocketry, and data analytics to drive inclusive growth and prosperity.
The pact will pave the way for joint satellite missions on agriculture, climate monitoring, and national security, as well as cooperation in space vehicle engineering, capacity building, and technology transfer.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) will also be deployed for forest conservation in the Amazon and the Nigeria-Cameroon basins, while Earth observation systems will be utilised to enhance resilience against natural disasters and food crises.
Santos described Brazil’s collaboration with Nigeria as a step toward creating globally relevant solutions, while President Lula da Silva called the partnership “a bridge of innovation and solidarity between two nations of the Global South.”
