The Director General of the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), Dr. Halilu Shaba, has estimated the potential value of Nigeria’s space sector at $1 billion, citing the country’s strategic position and growing expertise in space technology.
Shaba emphasized that offers a significant advantage, allowing its communication satellites to provide broader coverage across Africa—surpassing countries like Angola, whose satellite coverage is more limited.
“Our satellites can reach across the entire continent, not just West Africa. That reach gives us a significant market edge,” he explained.
He noted that NASRDA has already developed the blueprint for its next satellite but is currently seeking funding to move forward.
Democratizing Space Technology
Dr. Shaba also highlighted the agency’s efforts to raise public awareness about space technology, noting that many Nigerians unknowingly use it daily—through GPS, mobile phones, and other digital tools.
“People interact with space-based technologies without even realizing it,” he said. “We’re working with relevant institutions to help simplify and explain its everyday impact.”
Focus on Research and Academic Collaboration
To build local expertise, NASRDA has strengthened its partnerships with universities and encourages its researchers to pursue advanced degrees like Master’s and PhDs.
However, Shaba pointed out that security issues have limited the agency’s ability to foster a 24-hour research culture, unlike other countries with advanced space programs.
“In Nigeria, research typically runs for about eight hours daily, but we’re competing with countries that conduct round-the-clock research,” he said. “We’re working on ways to enhance security so that research centres, even those in remote areas, can operate more effectively.”
This outlook reflects Nigeria’s growing ambition to become a key player in Africa’s space ecosystem by leveraging its geographical advantage and investing in homegrown talent.
