FG Saves N2billion From Nigerian Satellite Patronage

Spencer Onuh, Director Center for Satellite Technology Development (CSTD),of the National Space and Research Development Agency (NASRDA), said the Federal Government saved about $2billion using its home made satellite.

Spencer, who spoke at the 2016 lecture of the centre on Tuesday , in Abuja, said various sectors of the economy such as communications, agriculture, military, education and medicine have benefitted from Nigerian satellite projects.

He said: “The benefits are enormous. The fact that we use ATM in our banking sector is a break though. We are able to use the Internet services with high broad band connectivity is a benefit.

He went on to explain more of the geographic and agricultural benefits

“We have detailed landmark of the country using the Nigerian satellite. This is what cost us about $3million in 1960.We talking about saving $2billion as of today. Even in Agriculture, we are able to advice our farmers, where to cultivate a plant and what to cultivate.”

He further said that the agency had a road map to develop space program in the country.

"The Nigerian space program is following a road map, within our road map the next phase is the human space program (astronaut program), but in terms of satellite development the next phase is the synthetic apature reader for sustainable development in Nigeria".

Dr. Felix Ale, who was the guest lecture delivered a paper on: Space Science and Technology: Roles of the press towards its evolution, promotion and educational benefits in developing nations.

Dr. Ale who is also the Head of Media and Corporate Communications of National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), tasked the media to continue to portray the positive aspect of space technology as it remains one of the strategic solutions to the realisation of social- economic growth in the country.

Ale said that the development of space science creates opportunities for social and economic development for developing nations. He believes if the media were to put a spotlight on space science in Nigeria, it would help improve and develop the sector and agitate the Federal Government to look into it.

“The Nigerian press must rise up to challenges to ensure the integration of space technology application into the various stages of the nation’s development efforts.”