Nigeria Targets Stronger Space Oversight in Line with Global Trends

The National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) recently hosted a critical Space Industry Stakeholders Workshop titled “Sensitisation and Engagement of Stakeholders on the Commencement of Space Regulation, Spectrum Management, and Licensing in Nigeria.” The event brought together key players in Nigeria’s space sector, including government officials, legal experts, and industry leaders, to chart a course for a more structured and economically viable space ecosystem.  

With Nigeria’s space sector contributing a negligible percentage to the national GDP compared to global counterparts, the workshop underscored the urgent need for regulatory reforms, strategic policy updates, and stronger institutional frameworks to unlock the sector’s full potential. 

Strengthening Nigeria’s Space Regulatory Framework 

One of the central discussions at the workshop revolved around the necessity of updating Nigeria’s space laws and policies. Dr Olisa Agbakoba (SAN), a prominent legal expert, emphasised that the current National Space Policy (2001), the NASRDA Act (2010), and the Regulations on Licensing and Supervision of Space Activities (2015) are outdated and insufficient for today’s rapidly evolving space economy.  

He called for the domestication of critical international space treaties, such as the Outer Space Treaty, the Rescue Agreement,  the Liability Convention and the Registration Convention. Dr Olisa Agbakoba (SAN) noted, “These treaties, if fully integrated into Nigerian law, would provide a stronger legal foundation for commercial space activities, satellite launches, and international collaborations.”  

The Role of the National Space Council  

A recurring concern was the National Space Council functionality, which has been inactive for years. The Minister of Science and Technology, HM Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, clarified that the council is still operational, with the Nigerian President as Chairman and the Vice President as Deputy Chairman. He assured stakeholders that the council is working towards revitalising Nigeria’s space ambitions, including developing a new National Space Policy that aligns with modern economic realities.  

Economic Potential of Nigeria’s Space Sector 

Nigeria’s space sector currently contributes an infinitesimal amount to the GDP, starkly contrasting the 17.78% of the UK GDP economy dependent on satellite services and 0.5% of the total U.S. GDP (2022). Dr Agbakoba (SAN) highlighted that with proper regulation and private-sector involvement, Nigeria could tap into the global space economy, projected to hit USD 1 trillion by 2030.  

He also noted some key areas for economic growth include:  

• Satellite Technology – Reducing reliance on foreign satellites for oil exploration, weather monitoring, and communication.  
• Space-Based Surveillance – Nigeria loses billions yearly due to ships turning off transponders to evade tariffs. NASRDA’s satellite tracking system will monitor vessels in real-time, boosting port revenues.
• Commercial Satellite Licensing – Encouraging private investments in satellite communications and remote sensing.  

The Minister also revealed that NASRDA’s new space regulation and licensing is expected to generate over USD 200 million annually, from fees and compliance enforcement, signaling a major leap in revenue generation from space-related activities.  

Public-Private Partnerships and Strategic Execution 

Across the globe, governments are racing to align national regulations with the rapid growth of private space ventures. In recent years, the United States, through the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and India, via the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe), have both modernised their licensing frameworks to adopt a commercial-first approach.

Nigeria’s evolving space regulations reflect similar ambitions, striking a balance between government oversight and creating an enabling environment for private sector participation and investment.

Speakers at the workshop stressed the importance of private sector collaboration in driving Nigeria’s space ambitions. Elon Musk’s Starlink was cited as an example of private innovation transforming the space industry, though concerns were raised about regulatory compliance. Dr Agbakoba (SAN) urged the government to adopt a laser-focused approach – combining policy refinement with the discipline of execution – to ensure tangible progress. He emphasised that Nigeria risks missing out on the burgeoning space economy without a clear roadmap.  

NASRDA’s New Logo Unveiled

Another programme highlight was NASRDA’s new official logo unveiling, a significant step in the Agency’s rebranding journey. The unveiling was conducted by Mrs Esuabana Asanye, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology (FMIST).

Speaking on the significance of the change, Dr Matthew Olumide Adepoju, Director General of NASRDA, noted that the new logo represents a forward-looking identity as the agency steps into the next 25 years and beyond. He explained that the former logo was generic and shared by more than 25 other government agencies, which diluted NASRDA’s unique visual identity. The new logo, he emphasised, underlines the agency’s renewed commitment to advancing Nigeria’s position in global space development.

The rebranded NASRDA logo features a bold design: six stars beneath a rocket, divided by a diamond. Each star represents one of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, symbolising unity, inclusivity, and a shared national vision. The diamond between the stars signifies the strength and dedication of all space practitioners working tirelessly to deliver on NASRDA’s mandate. As highlighted by the Honourable Minister, this emblem is not just a rebrand but a symbol of Nigeria’s evolving space ambition.

Conclusion: A New Era for Nigeria’s Space Ambitions  

The NASRDA workshop marked a significant step toward repositioning Nigeria as a competitive player in the global space industry. With plans to update legislation, activate the National Space Council, and leverage private sector expertise, Nigeria is laying the groundwork for a thriving space economy.  

As the Minister aptly stated, “Space is no longer the exclusive territory of dreamers; it is a domain of serious business, innovation, and national security. Thus, Nigeria must not only participate in the global space economy, but we must compete and lead.” The success of these initiatives will depend on sustained political will, strategic investments, and an enabling regulatory environment. If executed effectively, Nigeria could soon join the ranks of nations reaping substantial economic and technological benefits from space exploration.