In a landmark moment for Nigeria’s space exploration initiatives, kakalistiq.com reports that the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) has secured a significant approval to rename its Centre for Space Transport and Propulsion in Epe to the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Centre for Space Transport and Propulsion. The approval was announced during a highly successful meeting of the National Space Council at the State House, Aso Rock Villa, Abuja, yesterday.
The approval came with strong applause for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, whose visionary leadership continues to elevate Nigeria’s space program. Represented at the meeting by the Vice President, His Excellency Dr. Kashim Shettima GCON, the Vice Chairman of the Space Council, the President’s support was widely praised. As the Chairman of the National Space Council, President Tinubu’s decision reflects his commitment to advancing space science and technology in Nigeria.
Leading the charge at the meeting was Dr. Matthew Olumide Adepoju, the Director-General of NASRDA, accompanied by key directors from the Agency, including Dr. Godstime James (Director, Strategic Space Applications), Engr. Dr. Aiyeola Sikiru Yommy (Director, Space Regulation and Spectrum Management), Engr. Dr. Yusuf Olatunbosun (Director, Special Duties), and Prof. Ayantunji Benjamin (Director, Physical and Life Sciences). The team worked diligently towards achieving this pivotal milestone in Nigeria’s space research and development.
During the meeting, Dr. Adepoju and his team expressed deep gratitude for the approval, describing it as a monumental step in recognizing the contributions of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to Nigeria’s space program. The renaming of the Epe Space Centre to reflect the President’s name symbolizes the growing importance of space science in national development.
Reacting to the development, Dr. Aiyeola Sikiru Yommy, the Director of Space Regulation and Spectrum Management, lauded the efforts of both the President and the Director-General for this groundbreaking achievement. He described it as a monumental achievement for NASRDA, stressing the significance of the renaming as a way to honor President Tinubu’s leadership and his unwavering support for technological advancement in Nigeria.
Dr. Yommy further highlighted that the approval of a robust staff regulation and condition of service for NASRDA staff was another significant development that would boost the agency’s operational efficiency and morale. “We are truly grateful for these progressive decisions, and I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to our Director-General, Dr. Adepoju, for his exceptional leadership,” Dr. Yommy added. “He is leaving an indelible mark on the sands of time at NASRDA, and his efforts continue to drive the agency toward greater heights.”
The renaming of the Centre for Space Transport and Propulsion in Epe is a testament to the strong collaboration between the Nigerian government and NASRDA in shaping a brighter future for the country’s space research capabilities. This new chapter in the agency’s history comes as a timely reminder of Nigeria’s growing presence on the global space stage.
