National Security: Defence Ministry Strengthens Collaboration With NASRDA

By Micheal Chukwuebuka

The Minister of Defence Christopher Musa has reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to deepening collaboration with the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) to enhance space-based support for national security operations.

General Musa stated this while receiving a delegation from the Agency led by its Director General Dr. Matthew Adepoju on a working visit to the Ship house, Abuja.

The Minister noted that proactive, intelligence-driven operations are critical to defeating terrorism, banditry, and trans-border crimes, emphasizing that the satellite-enabled surveillance, radar imaging, and signal analytics can significantly improve situational awareness, assist in identifying criminal routes and hideouts, and provide stronger operational support to troops on the frontline.

He stressed the need for synergy between NASRDA and the Defence Space Administration, DSA, to ensure seamless integration of space assets into military operations.

The Director General NASRDA highlighted Nigeria’s existing space capabilities and international collaborations, disclosing that President Tinubu has approved the procurement process for additional satellites, including radar systems, to strengthen national security architecture.

The Agency has also presented concepts for enhanced border surveillance and real-time intelligence support, designed to improve environmental awareness and operational effectiveness.