President, Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI), Chief Emeka Obegolu, has said that effective collaboration with National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) will strengthen Africa’s space economy initiative.
Speaking on Friday – yesterday, January 24 – in Abuja, while on a courtesy visit to the newly appointed Director-General of NASRDA, Dr Mathew Adepoju, Obegolu said the visit was to congratulate Adepoju on his appointment while reinforcing the collaboration between ACCI and NASRDA.
The collaboration between the two bodies is aimed at adopting strong measures towards the success of the African Space Economy Conference and Exhibition (ASE), an initiative co-owned by both organisations as a flagship event designed to advance the continent’s space economy.
Obegolu described Adepoju’s appointment as timely and well-deserved, commending his significant contributions as Co-chair of the Planning Committee for the inaugural ASE in 2023.
“Your leadership during the maiden ASE reinforced our confidence in your ability to steer NASRDA toward new milestones.
“The partnership between ACCI and NASRDA is a strong example of how public and private sector collaboration can drive innovation and economic development,” he said.
The ACCI boss also lauded NASRDA’s initiative in establishing its commercial arm, encouraging the agency to register it as a member of the Chamber.
He also urged the agency to inspire other government agencies to foster deeper collaboration with the private sector.
He disclosed that the second edition of the ASE, with the theme, “Space Economy and Emerging Trends in Africa” is scheduled for June 17th and 18th, 2025, advocating an independent framework to institutionalise the event with a view to ensuring its sustainability under future ACCI and NASRDA leadership.
“We need to mobilise resources, promote the ASE and attract more business-oriented stakeholders to unlock the immense potential of the space economy.
“Collaboration is key, and both our legal teams should work together to establish a special purpose vehicle to drive this initiative,” he said.
Mr Osi Imomoh, Chairman of the ASE Planning Committee, emphasised the significance of the conference as a transformative platform for Africa’s space industry.
Imomoh, however, proposed the creation of a N10 million annual seed fund from both the ACCI and NASRDA to ensure the event’s sustainability and growth.
“Our vision is to make the ASE a must-attend event for global industry leaders, researchers, and policymakers.
“With adequate funding, we can deliver a world-class conference that strengthens Africa’s position in the global space economy,” Imomoh said.
Adepoju reaffirmed NASRDA’s commitment to the ASE and its broader goal of advancing Nigeria’s space economy.
The NASRDA boss outlined a three-point agenda for the agency, including transforming the agency into a globally competitive institution, empowering its workforce and integrating private sector participation to drive growth in the space sector.
“The collaboration between NASRDA and ACCI is pivotal to achieving our shared objectives.
“I am committed to ensuring the success of the ASE and positioning Nigeria as a global player in the space economy,” he said.
He pledged to release NASRDA’s N10 million contribution to the ASE seed fund once the agency’s budget became accessible.
He emphasised the need to institutionalise the ASE as a self-sustaining initiative jointly managed by NASRDA and ACCI.
