The Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, has reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) to enhance space-based support for national security operations.
According to a statement by Enderline Chukwu, a deputy director of information and public relations in the ministry, Musa gave the assurance on Wednesday when a delegation from NASRDA, led by its director-general, Matthew O. Adepoju, paid a courtesy visit to the Ministry’s headquarters at Ship House, Abuja.
The Minister emphasised that proactive, intelligence-driven operations remain critical to defeating terrorism, banditry and trans-border crimes.
He noted that satellite-enabled surveillance, radar imaging and signal analytics could significantly improve situational awareness, help identify criminal routes and hideouts, and provide stronger operational support to troops on the frontline.
According to him, integrating space-based assets into military operations would strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture and enhance the effectiveness of ongoing operations across the country.
Musa also stressed the need for closer synergy between NASRDA and the Defence Space Administration (DSA) to ensure seamless coordination and avoid duplication of mandates in the deployment of space technology for defence purposes.
Earlier in his remarks, Adepoju highlighted Nigeria’s existing space capabilities and the agency’s international collaborations. He disclosed that President Bola Tinubu had approved the procurement process for additional satellites, including radar systems, to further strengthen the country’s national security framework.
He added that NASRDA had developed proposals for enhanced border surveillance and real-time intelligence support aimed at improving environmental awareness and operational effectiveness.
Both parties agreed to harmonise their efforts and develop a coordinated deployment framework to maximise the use of space-based innovations in tackling insecurity.
The meeting ended with a shared commitment to accelerate collaboration and leverage advanced technology to reinforce Nigeria’s fight against emerging and persistent security threats.
Also present at the meeting were the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr Richard Pheelangwa, and the Director of Joint Services Department, Mrs Bosede Olaniyi.
