President Bola Tinubu has directed the prompt release of approved funds for the maintenance of Nigeria’s space assets, aligning with the National Space Policy and Programme. The directive was issued during the first meeting of the National Space Council at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, with Vice President Kashim Shettima representing the President.
President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to implementing the revised 25-year roadmap for space development.
“Nigeria will not watch the new frontier unfold from the sideline. We will participate, we will compete, we will contribute. Our space ambitions must be anchored in outcomes, accountability and national value,” he said.
He emphasized that space technology is critical for national development, highlighting its role in agriculture, security, disaster early warning systems, smart cities, and a competitive digital economy. Tinubu noted that the space economy is projected to surpass $1 trillion by 2040, underlining the sector’s potential for technological advancement and economic diversification.
“When we invest in space, we are not funding a distant dream. We are funding precision in agriculture and security in our borders; we are funding early warning systems against floods and fires, smarter cities, safer skies, stronger communications and a digital economy that can compete with the best in the world,” he added.
The President instructed the National Space Research and Development Agency and all relevant stakeholders to ensure responsible use of Nigeria’s space assets and resources, enforce regulatory compliance, and maintain accountability. He further mandated that all Ministries, Departments, Agencies (MDAs), and private sector partners release approved funds timely for the sector’s operations through the Federal Ministry of Finance.
“I also direct all MDAs, stakeholders and the private sector to comply with the space regulatory framework. This directive also includes timely release of all approved funds for this purpose by the Federal Ministry of Finance,” he stated.
President Tinubu’s directive underlines his administration’s ambition to leverage space technology as a driver of socio-economic development and national competitiveness.
