The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) and the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) have co-hosted the 2nd Africa Space Economy Conference and Exhibition (ASEC) in Abuja. The event brought together stakeholders across government, private sector, academia, and development partners to discuss opportunities in the continent’s space economy.
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Minister calls for pan-African cooperation
The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Mr. Uche Nnaji, urged African governments and industry leaders to work together to unlock the full benefits of space technologies.
“By embracing space technologies, Africa can enhance weather forecasting, resource management, healthcare delivery, and digital connectivity—delivering real benefits to our communities,” Mr. Nnaji stated.
He added, “No single nation can unlock the full potential of the space economy alone. We must invest in talent, foster innovation, and adopt bold policies.”
Mr. Nnaji stressed the need for African nations to build strong public-private partnerships and engage in regional and international cooperation.
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Nigeria’s space economy projected to grow
Dr. Emeka Obegolu, President of ACCI, said Nigeria’s space economy could contribute at least $1 billion to the national GDP every year by the late 2020s. He estimated private sector participation could account for $700–$800 million of that figure.
He also projected wider benefits for the economy, with space-based solutions impacting sectors such as agriculture, logistics, telecommunications, and data services.
“These are not distant dreams—they are within reach if we continue to mobilize strategic partnerships and create an environment that nurtures innovation,” Dr. Obegolu said.
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NASRDA advocates for local innovation
Dr. Matthew Adepoju, Director General of NASRDA, called for a shift from dependency on foreign space technologies to building local solutions.
“Through NASRDA and its affiliates, Nigeria is committed to fostering innovation, building human capital, and expanding local content in the space ecosystem,” he said.
Dr. Adepoju noted that cooperation across sectors and borders is key to Africa’s participation in the global space economy
