About Us

The National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) is Nigeria’s principal body dedicated to harnessing space science and technology to drive national development and enhance the quality of life through research, innovation, and capacity building in space-related fields. Established in 1999, NASRDA’s mission is to develop space capabilities and utilize space technologies to address Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges, promote sustainable development, and contribute to global space exploration.

Historical Background

The National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) was established in 1999 to accelerate Nigeria’s space program. Recognizing space exploration as a crucial factor for economic and technological growth, NASRDA’s formation was a commitment to harness space technology for national advancement.

Before NASRDA’s creation, Nigeria had participated in global space initiatives through collaborations with international space agencies. The agency’s focus was initially on building a structured national space program to conduct research, develop space technologies, and leverage these technologies for communication, environmental monitoring, and national security.

In 2003, NASRDA made a significant milestone with the launch of NigeriaSat-1, the nation’s first satellite developed in partnership with the UK-based Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd. (SSTL). This satellite provided Nigeria with the capability to monitor natural resources, weather patterns, and the environment, marking a significant step in the country’s space ambitions.

Following this achievement, NASRDA continued to advance Nigeria’s space capabilities with subsequent launches of NigeriaSat-2 (2011) and NigeriaSat-3 (2018), further enhancing Earth observation capabilities. These satellites play a crucial role in resource management, weather forecasting, and disaster response.

In addition to satellite deployment, NASRDA has focused on capacity building through local and international training programs to develop a skilled workforce capable of managing complex space technologies. NASRDA has also encouraged young Nigerians to pursue careers in space science and technology, aiming to foster the next generation of space professionals.

Through international collaborations with space agencies such as the European Space Agency (ESA), China National Space Administration (CNSA), and NASA, NASRDA has facilitated knowledge exchange, technology transfer, and joint research initiatives. Furthermore, NASRDA has supported the African Union’s space agenda to strengthen Africa’s global position in space activities.

Mission

NASRDA’s mission is to rigorously pursue the development of space capabilities and improve the living standards of the people through space-related research and development (R&D). This includes capacity building in science, engineering, space law, and administration to ensure sustainable national development.

Mission Statement

“To harness space science and technology for sustainable development in Nigeria, contributing to national security, economic growth, and global space exploration through research, satellite deployment, and capacity building.”

Vision Statement

“To be a leading space agency in Africa, driving Nigeria’s socio-economic growth and global space leadership through the advancement of space science, technology, and innovation.”

Mandates

NASRDA is mandated to utilize space technology for sustainable national development, focusing on:

  • Space for National Development: Ensuring that space technology contributes to vital areas such as agriculture, health, communication, and environmental management.
  • Promotion of Space Science and Technology: Enhancing Nigeria’s capacity for space exploration and research.
  • Global Space Cooperation: Positioning Nigeria as a leader in space activities both in Africa and globally.
  • Space-based Services: Providing space-based services for economic, educational, and security purposes to improve the lives of Nigerian citizens.

Objectives

  • Developing and deploying space technologies for Nigeria’s socio-economic growth.
  • Conducting research in satellite technology, space exploration, and space sciences.
  • Building human capacity in space science, technology, and innovation through education and training programs.
  • Utilizing space-based resources to enhance national security, monitor the environment, and support communication.
  • Promoting international cooperation in space exploration and facilitating technology transfer.
  • Enhancing Nigeria’s participation in global space activities.
  • Developing space infrastructure to support satellite operations and space research.
  • Providing essential space-based services, including remote sensing, meteorology, and communication systems for sustainable development.

Core Functions

NASRDA carries out several functions critical to the advancement of space science and technology in Nigeria:

  1. Space Research and Development: Conducting research and developing space technologies for national advancement.
  2. Satellite Development and Operation: Designing, launching, and operating satellites for communication, Earth observation, and scientific purposes.
  3. Space Science Education and Capacity Building: Promoting space science education and developing human capacity in space technology.
  4. International Collaboration: Engaging in partnerships with global space agencies and organizations for knowledge exchange and joint ventures.
  5. Space Policy Formulation and Implementation: Developing and implementing policies related to space technology and its applications.
  6. National Security and Surveillance: Utilizing space technology for national security, surveillance, and disaster management.
  7. Space Infrastructure Development: Establishing the infrastructure needed for space research and satellite operations.

Organizational Structure

NASRDA operates with a structured hierarchy to manage its extensive programs. The Director-General (DG) is at the top of the organizational structure, overseeing the agency’s strategic direction and operations. The DG works closely with the Minister of Science and Technology, who oversees NASRDA at the federal level.

Supporting the DG are Executive Directors responsible for key areas of the space program, including satellite development, space science research, and space applications. These divisions ensure that each aspect of the agency’s mandate is managed effectively and efficiently.

NASRDA also has several specialized centers dedicated to space research and satellite operations. For instance, the Centre for Space Transport and Propulsion focuses on developing propulsion systems for space missions, while the Centre for Remote Sensing and GIS handles data processing and application for environmental and resource management.

The agency maintains partnerships with universities, research institutions, and international space agencies to foster global collaboration. The Advisory Board, composed of eminent space experts, provides strategic guidance on policy and direction.

Summary

NASRDA has been a cornerstone of Nigeria’s advancement in space science and technology. Through strategic satellite development, capacity building, and international collaborations, NASRDA continues to push Nigeria to the forefront of space exploration in Africa. With its robust organizational structure and focus on sustainable development, NASRDA remains integral to Nigeria’s growth as a global player in space science and technology.