NASRDA promotes space collaboration talks with Shanghai SpaceSail
Date: 2026-04-29
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
Nigeria’s
National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) is progressing
discussions on a strategic partnership with China’s Shanghai SpaceSail
Technologies Co. Ltd. aimed at strengthening the country’s space capabilities
and expanding digital connectivity.
The
engagement was held at NASRDA headquarters in Abuja, where the Director
General, Matthew Adepoju, received a delegation from the Chinese satellite
technology firm.
According
to NASRDA, the proposed collaboration is expected to focus on satellite
constellation development, maintenance services, and spectrum management
solutions. These areas are intended to enhance Nigeria’s space infrastructure
while supporting broader national objectives in telecommunications and digital
transformation.
The
agency noted that the partnership could deliver significant benefits to
citizens, including improved internet access across urban and rural areas,
strengthened telecommunications services, and expanded opportunities for local
expertise development in satellite technology.
NASRDA
further stated that the initiative aligns with its long-term strategy to build
domestic capacity in space science and technology, including the potential for
local satellite maintenance and operations.
Representatives
from Shanghai SpaceSail described the discussions as a promising step toward a
mutually beneficial and results-oriented collaboration.
The
proposed partnership reflects Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to leverage
international cooperation to advance its space programme and support economic
development through technology-driven infrastructure expansion.
