ARTICLE AD
![DSA](https://cdn.punchng.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/11234136/DSA.jpg)
L-R: Director-General, NASRDA, Dr Matthew Adepoju, and the newly appointed Chief of Defence Space Administration, AVM Ibrahim Oluwatoyin
The National Space Research and Development Agency and the Defence Space Administration have reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing Nigeria’s national security through strategic joint projects.
This collaboration was emphasised during a courtesy visit by the newly appointed Chief of Defence Space Administration, Ibrahim Oluwatoyin, to the NASRDA Headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday.
In a statement released by the Director of Media and Corporate Communications at NASRDA, Dr Felix Ale, the agency’s Director-General, Dr Matthew Adepoju, stressed the importance of enhanced cooperation between the two agencies.
“Security is key in the developmental efforts of any nation,” Adepoju said, noting that collaboration between agencies is crucial for national development.
During his remarks, Adepoju congratulated the DSA chief on his new role, describing him as a “seasoned technocrat” in the space ecosystem and a valued member of the NASRDA family.
“We appreciate the ingenuity of the Chief of Air Staff and the posting of a space trainee to the administration. This is the first time someone from the space programme has been appointed.
“We expect significant collaboration between the DSA and NASRDA for the country’s progress and development,” Adepoju added.
The NASRDA chief also highlighted the numerous joint projects undertaken by both agencies aimed at addressing Nigeria’s security challenges.
He reiterated the agency’s commitment to advancing space technologies that can strengthen national security.
“We are fully committed to supporting the vision of the Defence Space Administration, especially in the area of capacity building and joint initiatives that will be impactful within a stipulated timeframe,” Adepoju stated.
Oluwatoyin, in his response, expressed his gratitude for the collaboration and support the DSA had received from NASRDA over the years.
He described the visit as a homecoming, noting that he had previously worked closely with the NASRDA management team.
“The security of Nigeria is both a professional goal and a moral responsibility,” Oluwatoyin said, stressing the need for stronger partnerships in technical collaboration, capacity building, and joint projects.
Oluwatoyin also expressed his appreciation for the warm reception extended to him and his principal officers during their visit.
He called for more efforts to leverage the combined expertise of both agencies to enhance Nigeria’s space capabilities and strengthen national security.
This collaboration between NASRDA and the DSA is expected to have far-reaching impacts on the nation’s security infrastructure, further solidifying Nigeria’s position in the global space ecosystem.