The Director-General of the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), Matthew Adepoju, has stressed the critical role of space technology in strengthening Nigeria’s national security architecture.

Mr Adepoju made the remarks on Thursday during a courtesy visit to the Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, in Abuja.

He said Nigeria’s evolving security challenges required sustained investment in advanced technological solutions, as well as stronger inter-agency collaboration.

According to him, NASRDA remains the only civilian agency in the country statutorily mandated to develop satellites.

The NASRDA boss highlighted some of the agency’s existing capabilities, including artificial intelligence-enabled monitoring systems designed to track activities over long distances and function both day and night.

He also disclosed that the agency was working toward deploying four new satellites to boost surveillance and earth observation capacity.

Mr Adepoju said the development would significantly enhance Nigeria’s ability to monitor its borders and respond swiftly to emerging security threats.

Mr Musa, who described the visit as timely and strategic, said the space agency played a vital role in supporting the ministry’s efforts to combat terrorism and strengthen national security operations.

Mr Musa noted that closer collaboration with NASRDA would improve operational efficiency and enhance the effectiveness of defence activities.

He assured the agency of the ministry’s full support in enabling it to achieve its mandate.
(NAN)