The Director-General of the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), Matthew Adepoju, has emphasized the importance of space technology in enhancing Nigeria’s national security.
Adepoju made the remarks on Thursday during a courtesy visit to the Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, in Abuja. He noted that Nigeria’s evolving security challenges require continuous investment in advanced technology and stronger inter-agency collaboration.
He highlighted that NASRDA is the only civilian agency legally mandated to develop satellites in the country. Adepoju outlined some of the agency’s current capabilities, including artificial intelligence-enabled monitoring systems that operate over long distances and function both day and night. He also revealed plans to deploy four new satellites to strengthen surveillance and earth observation capacity, which would improve border monitoring and rapid response to emerging security threats.
Minister Musa described the visit as timely and strategic, affirming that NASRDA plays a key role in supporting defence efforts, including counterterrorism operations. He added that closer collaboration with the agency would enhance operational efficiency and overall effectiveness of national security activities, and assured Adepoju of the ministry’s full support in fulfilling its mandate.
