Abuja, Nigeria: Nigeria is seeking to expand its role in the global space economy as the Federal Government steps up investment, international cooperation and capacity building to strengthen the country’s space technology capabilities.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, SAN, made the announcement during the inaugural International Space Summit in Paris, France.
The high level summit was hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron and brought together government leaders, space experts and other stakeholders to discuss the growing importance of space technology in economic development, security, scientific research and technological innovation.
Udeh said the Nigerian government was taking deliberate measures to advance the country’s space ambitions and make space technology a tool for national development.
He pointed to the recent approval of funding for the development of Nigeria’s space assets as evidence of the administration’s commitment to building a stronger and more competitive space sector.
The minister attended the summit alongside the Director General of the National Space Research and Development Agency, NASRDA, Prof Matthew Olumide Adepoju.
The Nigerian delegation also held engagements with international partners and other participants to explore opportunities for strategic cooperation, technology development and skills building.
According to Udeh, Nigeria’s space programme has the potential to contribute to several national priorities, including communications, agriculture, environmental monitoring, disaster management, national security, scientific research and economic growth.
He said continued investment in science, technology and innovation would be necessary to fully realise these opportunities.
The Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology said it would continue developing policies, supporting investment and building international partnerships aimed at advancing scientific research, technological innovation and sustainable development.
The ministry also said Nigeria intends to strengthen its position as the global space sector develops rapidly.
President Tinubu said the Paris summit provided Nigeria with an opportunity to deepen cooperation with countries and institutions that have advanced capabilities in space technology.
He said the country would continue seeking partnerships that can deliver practical benefits for Nigerians and support national development.
“The future of space is a future of opportunity, and Nigeria is determined to play a significant role in shaping it and harnessing its immense potential for national development,” he stated.
The Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology issued the statement on September 14, 2026.
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