By ZAKAA LAZARUS
The Honourable Minister of Defence General Christopher Musa (rtd) has reaffirmed the Ministry commitment to deepening collaboration with the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) to enhance space-based support for national security operations.
He stated this when the delegation from the Agency led by its Director General (DG/CE) Dr. Matthew O. Adepoju paid a visit to the Ministry on Wednesday 25th February, 2026 at the Ministry’s headquarters Ship house, Abuja.
The Minister informed that proactive, intelligence-driven operations are critical to defeating terrorism, banditry, and trans-border crimes, emphasizing that the satellite-enabled surveillance, radar imaging, and signal analytics can significantly improve situational awareness, assist in identifying criminal routes and hideouts, and provide stronger operational support to troops on the frontline.
He stressed the need for a closer synergy between NASRDA and the Defence Space Administration (DSA) to ensure seamless integration of space assets into military operations.
Speaking earlier, the DG National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) highlighted Nigeria’s existing space capabilities and international collaborations, disclosing that Mr. President has approved the procurement process for additional satellites, including radar systems, to strengthen national security architecture.
He said the Agency has also presented concepts for enhanced border surveillance and real-time intelligence support, designed to improve environmental awareness and operational effectiveness.
Both parties agreed to harmonize efforts, eliminate duplication of mandates, and develop a coordinated deployment framework to maximize efforts towards achieving effective national security operations.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to accelerate collaboration and leverage space-based innovations to strengthen Nigeria’s fight against insecurity.
Present at the meeting was the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr Richard Pheelangwa, Director Joint Services Department Mrs Bosede Olaniyi.
