Charting Nigeria’s Space Future

In this online encounter with Raheem Akingbolu, a Nigerian scholar, who is currently involved in some exciting STEM outreach initiatives in the United States, Ene Susan Ajonye, details how Nigeria can learn from the inspiring milestones of United States in Space technology to grow businesses and research.

At the beginning…

In the early 2000s, Nigeria embarked on an ambitious journey to explore space technology, with the hope that this would transform sectors such as communication, agriculture, security, and disaster management.

Although Nigeria has made remarkable progress in this regard, as it boasts of several satellites, notably NigeriaSat-1, NigeriaSat-2, and Nigeria Communications Satellite (NigComSat-1R), each serving different purposes, there are still key lessons to learn in order to optimize the country’s investments in space technology.

Ajonye, who is the Assistant Chief Research Scientist at the Nigeria Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) and currently a Graduate Research Assistant at Energy and Environmental Research Center (EERC) in North Dakota, USA, said Nigeria could learn from the United States, because it has set an inspiring example of how a nation can build a world-class space program through vision, innovation, and collaboration.

Nigeria, while at a different stage in its space journey, she said the country can learn from these lessons to chart a successful path forward. By investing in long-term goals, fostering private sector growth, prioritizing STEM education, and leveraging international partnerships, Nigeria can take its place among the global leaders in space exploration and technology.

“The United States has long been a space exploration and technology pioneer, achieving remarkable feats that have shaped the global space landscape,” Ajonye stated in a correspondence she shared with ThisDay, adding that, from the Apollo Moon landings to the recent explorations of Mars, the U.S. space program has consistently pushed the boundaries of what’s possible.

“While Nigeria’s space program is still in its developmental stages, invaluable lessons can be drawn from the U.S. space program’s experience and success,” Ajonye, Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths (STEM) and satellite technology advocate stated.

Invest in Long-Term Vision and Commitment…

One of the most critical lessons from the U.S. space program is the value of long-term vision. NASA’s achievements, such as the Moon landings and Mars missions, didn’t happen overnight—they resulted from decades of research, innovation, and sustained government investment. From President John F. Kennedy’s bold vision in 1961 to land a man on the Moon to the Artemis program, which aims to return humans to the Moon by 2025, the U.S. has consistently set ambitious goals and worked toward them over long periods.

Nigeria must develop a clear, long-term space strategy that sets ambitious yet achievable goals. While we’ve made significant strides since the launch of NigeriaSat-1, we must continue to expand our vision beyond Earth observation to explore new frontiers in satellite communication, climate monitoring, and even space exploration. A sustained commitment to space research and development, backed by government policy and funding, is essential for long-term success.

Foster Public and Private Sector Collaboration…

One of the most significant developments in the U.S. space program has been the rise of the private space sector, led by companies such as SpaceX, Blue Origin, and Virgin Galactic. The U.S. government has embraced public-private partnerships, allowing private companies to innovate in areas like rocket launches, satellite deployment, and even space tourism. NASA has become a key customer of private companies, using their services to send astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS) and cargo to orbit.

Nigeria can learn from this by enabling the private sector to participate actively in our space endeavors. By encouraging local innovation and investment in satellite technology and space services, Nigeria can reduce its reliance on foreign technology and stimulate job creation and economic growth. Collaboration between NASRDA and private companies will allow Nigeria to scale up its satellite operations and accelerate technological advancements.

Prioritize STEM Education and Workforce Development…

The success of the U.S. space program has always been driven by a highly skilled workforce in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). NASA and the private space sector rely on a continuous talent pipeline from universities, research institutions, and STEM education programs. The U.S. government has long prioritized investment in education, ensuring that the next generation of scientists, engineers, and space explorers is equipped with the knowledge and skills needed for future space missions.

For Nigeria, building a space program that can stand the test of time requires a strong foundation in STEM education. We need to prioritize investments in STEM curricula at all levels of education, from primary schools to universities, to nurture the next generation of Nigerian space scientists. Moreover, offering internships, scholarships, and training opportunities through NASRDA and related organizations can help develop a skilled workforce to drive Nigeria’s space ambitions forward.

Leverage International Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing…

The U.S. space program has thrived in part due to its international partnerships. NASA regularly collaborates with space agencies from Europe, Japan, Russia, and other countries on large-scale projects, such as the International Space Station (ISS), where astronauts from various nations work together in space. By fostering international partnerships, NASA can pool resources, share knowledge, and achieve common goals.

Nigeria can greatly benefit from leveraging international collaboration to advance its own space program. Partnerships with established space agencies like NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA) and emerging space powers like China and India can provide Nigeria access to cutting-edge technology, training opportunities, and shared research. These collaborations can help Nigeria build its capacity and keep up with global advancements in space technology.

Embrace Bold Exploration Initiatives…

The U.S. space program is synonymous with bold exploration. From sending astronauts to the Moon to the ongoing efforts to land humans on Mars, NASA has continually pushed the limits of human exploration. While Nigeria’s current focus is on Earth observation satellites and communication, the U.S. space program shows us the importance of thinking beyond immediate needs and aiming for exploratory missions that inspire the nation.

Nigeria’s space policy should include aspirational goals, such as sending Nigerian astronauts to space or contributing to deep space missions. While these objectives may seem distant now, setting bold targets helps drive innovation, national pride, and global recognition. Engaging the Nigerian public in these aspirations can also foster a sense of excitement and support for the space program.

Use Space Technology for Social and Economic Development…

One of the most impactful lessons from the U.S. space program is how space technology can be used for social and economic development. Satellites launched by NASA and private companies are used for various applications, including telecommunications, weather forecasting, agriculture monitoring, and disaster management. The commercial and societal benefits of space technology are vast, touching virtually every sector of the economy.

Nigeria has already started using satellites for disaster response, agriculture, and urban planning, but there is much more potential to unlock. By expanding the use of space technology in areas like healthcare, education, and infrastructure, Nigeria can harness the power of satellites to address pressing development challenges and improve the quality of life for its citizens. In particular, using satellite technology to monitor climate change, manage natural resources, and increase food security can transform the country’s future.

The stars are within reach, and with the right strategy and commitment, Nigeria can use its space program to address national challenges, drive innovation, and inspire future generations.