By Saminu Ibrahim
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, has called for sustained investment in indigenous space technology, research and innovation to strengthen national security and enhance the operational effectiveness of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN).
Oluyede made the call on Friday at the inaugural Defence Space Administration (DSA) Day celebration held at the General Leo Irabor Hall, with the theme, “Space Power and National Security”.
The CDS commended the DSA for its achievements in advancing Nigeria’s defence space capabilities, particularly the launch of DelSat-1, the establishment of geospatial intelligence infrastructure, the Modular Earth Observation Outpost at the Headquarters of Operation HADIN KAI, and the commencement of academic activities at the Defence Space School in Orogun.
He urged the administration to strengthen indigenous research and development, improve the reliability and security of space-based products, and ensure their effective integration into joint military and inter-agency operations.
According to him, these measures are essential to addressing emerging security challenges and enhancing the capacity of the Armed Forces to respond to evolving threats.
Oluyede also stressed the need for stronger collaboration among the Armed Forces, academic institutions, industries and relevant government agencies to accelerate indigenous innovation and expand Nigeria’s capacity to deploy space technology for defence and national development.
In his welcome address, the Chief of Defence Space Administration, Major General Philip Ilodibia, called for greater synergy among the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy and Nigerian Air Force to improve joint operational effectiveness.
Ilodibia also emphasised the importance of sustained collaboration with the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), the Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT) and other stakeholders to advance Nigeria’s space capabilities in support of national security and development.
The event was attended by the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Defence, Senator Ahmed Lawan; Chairman of the House Committee on Defence, Senator Babajimi Benson; Mrs Mary Iya Badeh, wife of the late Chief of Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshal AS Badeh (rtd); and former Chief of Defence Staff, General AG Olanisakin (rtd), among other dignitaries.
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