The National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) has underscored the importance of deploying geospatial intelligence to enhance crime prevention and strengthen national security in Nigeria.
Gatekeepers News reports that the Director-General of NASRDA, Dr Matthew Adepoju, made this known during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the agency and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja.
In a statement issued by NASRDA’s Director of Media and Corporate Communications, Dr Felix Ale, Adepoju said the space agency was proud to partner with the EFCC to reinforce the implementation of national space regulations, improve spectrum management, and strengthen oversight of activities within Nigeria’s rapidly expanding space ecosystem.
Describing the MoU as “a milestone for justice and accountability,” the NASRDA boss said the agreement would ensure that both local and international organisations operating in Nigeria’s space sector comply fully with existing laws and regulatory frameworks.
Adepoju identified illegal mining as a major contributor to insecurity in the country, noting that NASRDA remains committed to regulating operators across the upstream, midstream and downstream segments of the space sector to guarantee full legal compliance.
According to him, the EFCC is the ideal partner for the initiative, citing the commission’s “strong leadership, sound institutional management and proven track record” under its current chairman, Olanipekun Olukoyede.
He added that NASRDA would deploy advanced space and geospatial technologies to support the EFCC in executing its mandate more efficiently and in line with international best practices.
Adepoju described the collaboration as the beginning of a new chapter for both institutions, promising stronger enforcement, improved national security, and a more transparent and compliant space sector in Nigeria.
