The Federal Government has emphasized that space technology and exploration are essential for national growth and security, with the potential to tackle pressing global challenges.
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Dr. Felix Ale, Director of Media and Corporate Communications at the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), said this in a statement on Wednesday.
According to Ale, President Bola Tinubu emphasized this during his state visit to Brazil, where Nigeria and Brazil signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on space cooperation.
The agreement, witnessed by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, was signed by Nigeria’s Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, and Brazil’s Science Minister, Mrs. Luciana Santos.
Speaking at the signing, Nnaji stressed that space technology is no longer a luxury but a necessity for national prosperity and security. He added that both government leaders and industry experts highlighted its strategic importance in tackling global issues such as climate change, food insecurity, disaster management, and digital transformation.
”The MoU is a statement of shared vision with space technology offering Africa and Latin America a powerful tool to leapfrog into the future economy.
“Under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, Nigeria is committed to building an ecosystem of innovation, leveraging satellites, rocketry, and data analytics to drive inclusive growth and prosperity,” he said.
The minister also said that the agreement was expected to pave way for joint satellite missions for agriculture, climate monitoring and national security, alongside cooperation in space vehicle engineering, capacity building and ensure technology transfer.
He added that Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications would be deployed for forest conservation in the Amazon and Nigeria, Cameroon basins, while Earth observation systems would strengthen resilience against natural disasters and food insecurity.
”Stakeholders believe this cooperation will create unprecedented opportunities for researchers, entrepreneurs, investors and youth in both countries, while reinforcing global efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
”The signing of the MOU marks a new era in Nigeria Brazil relations, demonstrating that space science and technology are not just about exploration, but about building economies, empowering people, enhancing security, and safeguarding the planet,” Nnaji said.
Similarly, Santos highlighted Brazil’s global leadership in satellite development and bio economy applications, affirming that collaboration with Nigeria would not only strengthen bilateral ties but also deliver solutions with planetary relevance.
President Lula da Silva, on his part described the partnership as a bridge of innovation and solidarity between two great nations of the Global South.