The Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (rtd), has reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to deepening collaboration with the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) to enhance space-based support for national security operations.
According to a statement made available to Defence Correspondents in Abuja by Enderline Chukwu, Deputy Director, Information and Public Relations, Ministry of Defence, Musa gave the assurance when a delegation from the agency, led by its Director General (DG/CE), Dr. Matthew O. Adepoju, paid a visit to the Ministry on Wednesday.
The statement explained that the Minister noted that proactive, intelligence-driven operations were critical to defeating terrorism, banditry, and trans-border crimes. He emphasised that satellite-enabled surveillance, radar imaging, and signal analytics could significantly improve situational awareness, assist in identifying criminal routes and hideouts, and provide stronger operational support to troops on the frontline.
It added that the Minister stressed the need for closer synergy between NASRDA and the Defence Space Administration (DSA) to ensure seamless integration of space assets into military operations.
The statement further noted that, while speaking earlier, the DG of NASRDA highlighted Nigeria’s existing space capabilities and international collaborations. He also disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had approved the procurement process for additional satellites, including radar systems, to strengthen the national security architecture.
He added that the agency had presented concepts for enhanced border surveillance and real-time intelligence support, designed to improve environmental awareness and operational effectiveness.
The statement concluded that both parties agreed to harmonise efforts, eliminate duplication of mandates, and develop a coordinated deployment framework to maximise effectiveness in national security operations.