…..To leverage on space security platforms
The Federal Government on Tuesday disclosed a target of generating over $20 billion annually from space technology in Nigeria.
Speaking in Abuja at the launch of space security platform, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji revealed government’s strategic plans to capitalize on space technologies for national revenue generation, particularly in key sectors like oil monitoring and maritime surveillance.
“With space-based surveillance, we can detect vessels entering Nigerian waters—even those that switch off their transponders to evade detection.
“We’ll be able to track them, ensure compliance, and collect the appropriate fees. This initiative alone could yield over $20 billion annually.
“Space is no longer the domain of dreamers alone—it is now the frontier of serious business, innovation, and national security,” he declared.
“Our task is clear: to establish a transparent, well-regulated ecosystem where public and private actors—from startups to established institutions—can thrive,” he added.
The new space security platform is tied to the enforcement of Nigeria’s 2015 Regulations on the Licensing and Supervision of Space Activities.
Section 4(1), mandates that no one “shall carry out activities to which the Regulations apply except under the authority of a license granted by the National Space Council.”
These regulations aim to hold local and foreign operators—such as Starlink and DSTV—accountable under Nigerian law.
“Currently, some pay appropriate fees, while others contribute minimally, shortchanging Nigerians. This new regulatory framework will address that imbalance,” Nnaji stated.
On his part, the Director General of the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), Dr. Matthew Adepoju said the platform will serve as empowerment particularly for youths.
“Nigeria must remain a forward-thinking nation. We must ensure that space activities within our jurisdiction are properly regulated, commercially optimized, and aligned with international best practices,” Adepoju said.
According to NASRDA, Nigeria can generate about N200bn annually from space-related activities, with potential growth rates of 18–20 per cent per year.
