The Nigerian Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Mr Uche Nnaji has called on governments, industry leaders, researchers, and development partners to collaborate in building Africa’s space economy.
He made the call during the 2nd edition of the Africa Space Economy Conference and Exhibition, ASEC co-organised by ACCI and National Space Research and Development Agency NASRDA in Abuja with the theme; ” Africa Space Economy and Emerging Market”.
The minister said by embracing space technologies, the continent can enhance weather forecasting, resource management, healthcare delivery, and digital connectivity—delivering real benefits to communities.
Mr Nnaji said, “To achieve this, collaboration is essential, no single nation can unlock the full potential of the space economy alone.”
“We must strengthen public-private partnerships, international alliances, and regional cooperation to share knowledge, develop infrastructure, and build collective capacity.”
“Africa must invest in talent, foster innovation, and adopt bold policies. By doing so, we cannot only participate in the global space sector but also shape it—advancing our sovereignty, resilience, and economic self-reliance.” The minister added.
The President of the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry, ACCI, Dr Emeka Obegolu said Nigeria’s space economy has the potential to contribute at least $1 billion annually to its national GDP by the late 2020s, with the private sector accounting for $700 to $800 million of that contribution.
Dr Obegolu stated that projections show that the broader business ecosystem in Nigeria could benefit from an annual value of up to $15 to $25 billion, cutting across critical sectors such as agriculture, telecommunications, logistics, oil and gas, urban planning, insurance, and data services.
According to him, “These are not distant dreams, they are within reach if we continue to mobilize strategic public-private partnerships, attract domestic and foreign direct investment, and create a business-friendly environment that nurtures innovation.”
“The role of the Nigerian business community in this emerging sector is both significant and indispensable” Dr Obegolu noted.
The ACCI boss disclosed that the Space-based technologies already support improved agricultural productivity, enhanced national security and disaster response and capacity building through the development of technical skills and new jobs in STEM fields.
“For our business leaders, ASEC presents a rare opportunity, a platform not only for learning and dialogue but for investment, networking, and future-proofing your enterprises.”
Also, the Director General of NASRDA, Dr Matthew Adepoju, while speaking said Africa must move beyond being a consumer of imported space technologies and begin to build its own capabilities in space research, development, and commercialization.
“Nigeria, in particular, continues to play a strategic role in advancing Africa’s space agenda.
Through NASRDA and its affiliated institutions, we are committed to fostering innovation, building human capital, and expanding local content in the space ecosystem.”
“Let us seize this opportunity to deepen collaboration across governments, research institutions, private enterprises, and international partners to ensure that Africa is not only a participant but a key stakeholder in shaping the future of space.” He said.
Victoria Ibanga