In a bold move to harness space technology for national growth and protection, Nigeria is set to launch four advanced satellites aimed at strengthening security and boosting socio-economic development.

The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, revealed this ambitious plan during the 22nd National Council on Innovation, Science and Technology held in Abuja. He announced that the Federal Executive Council has approved the deployment of three Earth observation satellites and one all-weather radar satellite.

The search satellite is the one that will pick images both day, night, during rain, every time of the day, and that is technology in play,” Nnaji said. 

The satellite initiative is a key part of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which emphasizes leveraging technology to tackle Nigeria’s pressing challenges. According to Nnaji, the government is also revising the national policy on science, technology, and innovation to align with emerging global trends.

To fuel innovation further, the administration is planning the establishment of a National Research and Innovation Fund, aimed at empowering young inventors and researchers who often lack financial support to commercialize their ideas.

Nnaji stressed the urgent need for stronger collaboration between universities, research institutes, industries, and the government. 

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, echoed these sentiments, urging stakeholders to focus on practical research that addresses real-world problems. He called for unified efforts to turn scientific research into tangible solutions that benefit everyday Nigerians.

More than 100 proposals spanning health, agriculture, education, and other key sectors were submitted at the council meeting, reflecting a nationwide push for innovation-driven development.

Officials also assured the public that the council’s meetings will now resume their regular schedule after last year’s disruption, signaling a renewed commitment to scientific progress.