UNILORIN Commissions NASRDA/DSA Space Research Centre, Marks Major Leap in Nigeria’s Scientific and Defence Innovation

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26/11/25 • 11 Ansichten • 0 Aktie • Veröffentlicht in Andere

The University of Ilorin on Tuesday inaugurated the NASRDA/Defence Space Administration (DSA) Space Research Centre, a landmark project hailed as a significant boost to Nigeria’s scientific, technological, and defence research capabilities. The commissioning formed part of activities marking the institution’s 50th anniversary celebration.

Speaking at the event, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Wahab O. Egbewole (SAN), welcomed top dignitaries including the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammed—represented by Air Vice Marshal Charles Otegbade (rtd)—members of the University Governing Council, senior military officers, traditional rulers, and representatives of the Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union.

Professor Egbewole praised former Chief of the Defence Space Administration, Air Vice Marshal Lanre Ibrahim Oluwatoyin (rtd), for championing the project from its conception to completion. He noted that the centre aligns with the university’s strategic plan to expand into high-level scientific and technological research, describing the collaboration among UNILORIN, NASRDA, and the DSA as both “courageous and innovative.” He urged researchers to leverage the new facility for globally competitive work.

Air Vice Marshal Oluwatoyin (rtd), who facilitated the project, expressed gratitude to the Defence Space Administration, NASRDA, and the university community for backing the idea. He revealed that the project, conceived in May 2025, was executed swiftly following a series of technical assessments and consultations. He also thanked the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Olatokunbo Oluyede, Air Marshal Sande Kelfin Aneke, and other service chiefs for their support, noting that the centre represents a contribution to national security and scientific advancement.

Delivering remarks on behalf of the Minister of Science, Innovation and Technology, NASRDA Director General Dr. Matthew Olumide Adepoju described the centre as a significant addition to Nigeria’s growing space ecosystem. He commended the University of Ilorin for providing the land and institutional backing, and lauded Air Vice Marshal Oluwatoyin for his vision and leadership. Dr. Adepoju highlighted the centre as a product of effective collaboration between industry, research institutions, and academia—a model he said is crucial for national progress. He pledged NASRDA’s commitment to equipping the facility with world-class tools and expanding training opportunities for researchers and students.

Representing the Chief of Defence Staff, Major General P.O. Ilodibia emphasized the strategic importance of space technologies to modern defence operations. He noted that the new centre would strengthen Nigeria’s capacity in satellite deployment, geospatial analysis, surveillance, and disaster response. He applauded the University of Ilorin for hosting the facility, saying the partnership would help groom the next generation of scientists and intelligence experts necessary for the nation’s technological growth.

The ceremony drew attendance from high-ranking military officers, university administrators, traditional leaders, members of the Ilorin community, and stakeholders from Nigeria’s expanding space research ecosystem.

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