Senate President Godswill Akpabio has reiterated the National Assembly’s dedication to strengthening Nigeria’s space capabilities, urging increased funding for the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) as a vital step toward resolving the nation’s security and socio-economic challenges.
Represented by Senator Samson Ekong (Akwa Ibom South) at NASRDA’s 2025 Top Management Retreat in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Akpabio emphasized the agency’s central role in advancing national development. His position was communicated through a statement released in Abuja by NASRDA’s Director of Media and Corporate Communications, Dr. Felix Ale.
Highlighting the relevance of space-based technology in today’s global landscape, Akpabio noted, “Space-based technologies now drive key socio-economic systems worldwide. Nigeria must not be left behind. Adequate resources should be allocated to this critical sector.”
He further advocated for stronger legislative-agency collaboration to harness NASRDA’s capacity in real-time surveillance and security threat monitoring, particularly in ungoverned territories.
Delivering a goodwill message, Akwa Ibom State Governor Pastor Umo Eno—represented by Deputy Governor Senator Akon Eyakenyi—praised NASRDA for the strategic timing of the retreat and called for intensified capacity-building initiatives to support national goals.
Also speaking at the event, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, represented by Dr. Robert Ngwu, lauded the retreat’s theme as visionary and underscored space technology’s growing importance in asserting national sovereignty and economic strength.
Closing the retreat, NASRDA Director General Dr. Matthew Adepoju reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to delivering homegrown space solutions. “This retreat is about setting a new course, enhancing internal capacity, and strategically repositioning NASRDA for greater impact,” he stated.
Hobnob News will continue tracking developments from Nigeria’s space sector as it charts a new course for national progress.
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