FG to generate over N300trn annually from space regulation, licensing
By Seun Ibiyemi
The Federal Government announced on Tuesday in Abuja that it could generate over 200 billion dollars (311.23 trillion naira) annually from the regulation and licensing of space activities.
Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, made the statement at a one-day sensitisation and stakeholder engagement event on the commencement of space regulation, spectrum management, and licensing in Nigeria.
The workshop, organised by the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), was part of ongoing efforts to develop the space sector.
Nnaji described the workshop as a significant step towards creating a fair and competitive space industry that could directly contribute to Nigeria’s economic growth and technological advancement.
“With this space regulation and licensing, companies such as Starlink, including DSTV, who currently pay minimal fees for using space-based services and short-change Nigerians, will be properly regulated and licensed,” Nnaji said.
You can be assured that, by following the laid-out strategies, we expect to generate over 200 billion dollars annually, with yearly growth of 18 to 20 per cent.”
The Minister also revealed that President Bola Tinubu had approved the integration of space technology into revenue generation, particularly in the oil and gas sector.
“This will ensure that any ship entering the country, even when they turn off their engines and glide in without paying bunker fees or other dues, can still be tracked by space technology for necessary payments,” Nnaji explained.
“We anticipate generating over 20 billion dollars annually from this, as part of the broader reforms under this new regulation.”
He added that space technology is no longer just a domain for dreamers but a critical tool for innovation and national security, serving purposes such as communications, remote sensing, navigation, and data systems.
“Space is now central to modern economies,” he said. “Our goal is to create a regulated ecosystem where both public and private sectors can thrive, and a space sector that fosters innovation, attracts investments, and delivers tangible benefits to the Nigerian people.”
Nnaji also shared that the Federal Government, through the National Space Council, which comprises 15 members, is actively working to ensure that the National Space Policy reflects the needs of modern space operations.
The Director-General of NASRDA, Dr Matthew Adepoju, noted that the workshop was aimed at finding ways to implement the 2015 space regulations on licensing and supervision, as set out in the agency’s Act of 2010.
He explained that the rapid growth of the space sector, marked by an increasing number of satellites and space-based assets, made regulation and commercialisation essential to boosting Nigeria’s economy.
“These regulations provide a comprehensive framework that ensures compliance with both national and international space laws, promotes transparency in licensing processes, and enhances security and safety in space operations,” Adepoju said.
“Space licensing and regulation can become a significant revenue-generating avenue for the Nigerian government.”
He further stated that implementing a structured licensing system would ensure appropriate fees and charges for satellite launches, spectrum management, and data services within the country.
“This will help commercialise space-related services and attract both local and foreign investments into Nigeria’s space industry,” he added.
Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Mr Olisa Agbakoba, speaking on space regulation and spectrum management, called for a review of the National Space Policy, which was first produced in 2000. Agbakoba also advocated for the domestication of key international space treaties that Nigeria had ratified but had yet to incorporate into national law.
He recalled that the global space economy was projected to reach one trillion dollars by 2030 and stressed the importance of Nigeria capturing a substantial share of this market.
“We need to establish the right regulatory, legal, and institutional frameworks now to take advantage of this opportunity,” Agbakoba said.
He also urged the government to strengthen the National Space Council, suggesting that without a viable council, the implementation of space policies could be challenging.
Dr Umar Bindir, Secretary to the Adamawa State Government, spoke on the importance of translating scientific knowledge into practical solutions. He called for a harmonisation of regulatory frameworks with national development goals to promote innovation.
“We need to analyse the historical and overlapping groups, particularly ministries, agencies, and the databases of universities and colleges of education,” Bindir said. “This will allow us to filter their mandates for space-related activities and coordinate efforts effectively.”
He also recommended that there should be intense promotion of space technology through initiatives such as regular exhibitions. “A strategy for the proper promotion of space technology is crucial,” he said.
The event also featured the unveiling of NASRDA’s new logo by Mrs Esuabana Nko-Asanye, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology, as well as the delivery of studio equipment for the Nigerian Science, Technology, and Innovation Television, which is managed by NASRDA.