The Director General, National Space Research and Development Agency, NASRDA, Dr. Halilu Ahmad Shaba has emphasized that capacity building in Drone development will reposition the Agency to become a hub for drone development in Africa.
Dr. Shaba who was represented by the Director, Engineering and Space Systems, Dr. Olufemi Agboola, made this remark in Abuja during the opening ceremony of a 5-day training workshop on Project Management and Drone development, organized by NASRDA’s laboratory for Advanced Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Uburu – Ebonyi State.
He lauded the organizers for their efforts towards drone development adding that the re-training programmes in Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and drone Development, are one of the low hanging fruits that can be harvested for the benefit of the nation and the African continent.
The Director-General, while declaring the training workshop open, charged participants to ensure the gains from the workshop are evident, saying the Agency’ will give necessary support especially in activities that reflect its mandate and contribute to the nation’s economy.
Earlier in his welcome address, Dr Akachukwu Chichebe, Director, Advanced Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Laboratory, said the workshop is in continuation of series of activities to deliver the dividends of the Nigerian Space programm
Dr Chichebe further stated the importance of having the training on the NASRDA headquarters campus as it provides a platform for the participation of a good number of Scientists and Engineers, interested in technologies bordering UAV and Drones.
He however urged participants to be open minded and receptive towards the training, stating that it is an opportunity that should yield productive solutions that can be implemented for the betterment of Nigerians.
