The Minister for Science Technology and Innovation, Dr. Adeleke Mamora has said that the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) has developed capabilities in the Space sector to enable it lead in the Community of Space Practice worldwide.
He stated this at the Stakeholders Meeting and Launch of the Nigeria Group on Earth Observation (GEO-NIGERIA), held at the National Space Research and Development Agency’s Headquarters in Abuja.
Dr. Mamora who described the launch of GEO-Nigeria as giant step for the nation noted that it would largely contribute to socio-economic development, Security, poverty alleviation, sustainable development, food security and several others for the overall betterment of the society.
The Minister, while describing NASRDA as the Flagship Agency of the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation urged the Agency not to relent in the pursuit of the objectives of the project to ensure sustainable development for Nigeria.
Speaking earlier, the Director General of the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), Dr. Halilu Shaba who doubles as the GEO Principal, stressed that the launch of GEO Nigeria is historic being made and has come to stay, and pledged that his administration will safeguard this crucial project.
Dr. Shaba added that the objective of this project is in line with NASRDA’s core mandate, which is to harness the supremacy of Earth Observation Data for the betterment of societies.
The NASRDA helmsman disclosed that the secretariat for GEO-Nigeria will be domiciled at the United Nations African Regional Center for Space and Technology Education in English (ARCSSTE-E), which is one of the seven activity centers of NASRDA, so as to ensure a smooth and seamless coordination of its activities within the country.
The focal Person for GEO-Nigeria, Prof. Babatunde Rabiu in his remark assured that this project will speak for Nigeria as well as create many opportunities for the Nation to shine globally in this era of rapid technological advancement.
Dr. Rabiu further stated that stakeholders must use this opportunity to initiate networking with partners so as to join hands at the National level to embark on this transformative journey in alignment with the International GEO community for a better Nigeria.
The Director, Strategic Space Application and the Geo-Nigeria Alternate Principal, Dr. Mathew Adepoju in his remark appreciated the Minister and relevant stakeholders for the support throughout the historic event, urging that all hands should be on deck for the progress of this project so that Nigeria can begin to harvest it’s benefits.
Priscilla Harry
Media and Corporate Communications
