The National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), under the leadership of Dr Halilu Shaba, the agency’s Director-General, recently hosted a delegation from the Shanghai Astronomical Observatory (SHAO) to engage in discussions regarding the implementation plan for constructing and operating a groundbreaking Very Long Baseline Interferometry (VLBI) system in sub-Saharan Africa. 

VLBI is a cutting-edge technique that combines data from multiple radio telescopes to create a virtual telescope with the highest possible resolution. By implementing such a system in Nigeria, the country will gain unprecedented capabilities in observing and studying various celestial phenomena.

This exceptional astronomical infrastructure and the wealth of information it will generate will empower policymakers and planners with a deeper understanding of geophysical events and enable them to make informed decisions concerning infrastructure development, resource management, and environmental conservation.

Moreover, the VLBI system is poised to be significant in monitoring seismic activities and volcanic eruptions within Nigeria and the entire sub-Saharan region. The acquired data will be shared with the relevant departments responsible for managing these natural hazards in those countries.

This notable initiative is a testament to NASRDA’s and Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to harnessing space technologies to advance sustainable development in Nigeria and throughout the continent. Investing in cutting-edge astronomical infrastructure, Nigeria aims to strengthen its scientific capabilities and contribute to regional efforts to understand and mitigate geophysical risks.