ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), has been signed by the Federal Government of Nigeria and the Space Exploration and Research Agency (SERA) from Delaware, USA.
The essence of the MoU was to collaborate on human space flight missions.
In a landmark event held today at Abuja, the MoU was signed between the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) and SERA, highlighting a collaborative effort to advance the capacities of human space flight.
VONa reports that the partnership which amongst other things, is targeted at fostering the development of critical technologies and infrastructure required for human missions beyond Earth. This partnership will also see a Nigerian land in space.
The signing ceremony was supervised by the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji.
READ ALSO: Niger Republic Close Air Space Citing ‘Threat Of Intervention’
Speaking, Nnaji underscored the importance of this partnership for Nigeria’s flourishing space programme.
In his address, the Minister highlighted the transformative potential of this partnership, noting that it is a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to advancing its capabilities in space exploration.
He said the public-private partnership with SERA will not only accelerate the nation’s technological advancements but also inspire a new generation of scientists and engineers.
The minister further asserted that this move is in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, adding that this is a significant step forward in Nigeria’s ambition to become a key player in global space exploration.
He buttressed that the agreement will also foster cooperation in various aspects of space technology, research, and development, even, noting that both NASRDA and SERA will work together on mission planning, astronaut training, and the creation of infrastructure necessary for sustained human presence in space.
On his part, the Director General of NASRDA, Dr Mathew Adepoju, expressed his interest for the partnership, saying it is a historic moment for NASRDA and Nigeria.
Adepoju added that SERA’s expertise and the agency’s dedication will yield remarkable milestones in human space exploration within the continent and beyond.