The National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) is set to begin implementing its space regulation and licensing mandate, following the approval of a N20 billion take-off fund by President Bola Tinubu.
NASRDA’s Director-General, Matthew Adepoju, made this announcement on Thursday in an interview with the media in Abuja. He noted that the agency’s regulatory role, as outlined in the NASRDA Act of 2010, had remained unfulfilled since the agency’s establishment in 1999.
This comes ahead of the NASRDA stakeholders’ workshop on space regulation, scheduled for April 8. Adepoju explained that upon assuming office, he submitted a memo to President Tinubu urging the enforcement of NASRDA’s regulatory functions. This was in line with the provisions of Sections 6 and 9 of the agency’s enabling laws.
In response, President Tinubu approved the N20 billion take-off fund to enable the agency to begin regulating the space sector and managing spectrum in Nigeria.
“I raised that memo, stating that our space sector can no longer remain unregulated. Mr. President graciously approved the N20 billion take-off fund a few months ago to enable us to commence space regulation and spectrum management in Nigeria,” Adepoju said. He further emphasized the importance of taking charge of the space sector to prevent its misuse, particularly in light of security concerns.
While the N20 billion has been approved, Adepoju clarified that the agency has not yet accessed the funds, as the release of funds is subject to availability.
He explained that the space sector is divided into three segments: upstream, midstream, and downstream. The agency’s platform for licensing is open to both public and private sector operators in the space industry, covering those who use or provide space products and services.
Adepoju stressed the importance of strict oversight of satellite image providers, geographic information system operators, satellite-based telecommunications, and broadcasting services. He warned that, if left unregulated, geographical data intelligence could be exploited by non-state actors for illicit activities.
The Director-General highlighted that this initiative would not only enhance national security but also contribute to economic diversification and the development of local content.
Additionally, he noted that it would generate revenue from sectors such as oil and gas, shipping, and telecommunications, all of which rely on space products for their operations.
