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From Charity Nwakaudu, Abuja
The Federal Government has announced a landmark initiative to send its first citizen into space, after several delays.
The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, made during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Space Exploration and Research Agency (SERA), Delaware, USA and the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), in Abuja, yesterday.
Chief Nnaji explained that the partnership is a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to advancing its capabilities in space exploration.
He stressed that the public-private partnership with SERA would not only accelerate the nation’s technological advancements but also inspire a new generation of scientists and engineers.
“In efforts to correct past delays and align with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, we have revitalised the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and technology and its parastatals. Since I resumed office, I am pleased to see our efforts bearing fruits. This signing of the MOU is a testament to our rigorous efforts over the past months.”
On his part, Dr. Mathew Adepoju, director general of the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), said the initiative would open a new door for scientific and technical development in the country.
He revealed that the MoU with the Space Exploration and Research Agency (SERA) is to facilitate the ambitious project.
He noted that this collaboration signified a major milestone in Nigeria’s 25th anniversary of space exploration, positioning the nation among countries actively engaged in human spaceflight.
Speaking on behalf of SERA, Joshua Scholar, expressed their readiness to make space exploration open to all Nigerians from the age of eighteen.
