By Holison Joshua, Abuja
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, has called for sustained investment in indigenous space technology, research and innovation to strengthen Nigeria’s national security and enhance the operational effectiveness of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN).
Oluyede made the call on Friday, October 9, 2026, during the inaugural Defence Space Administration (DSA) Day Celebration held at the General Leo Irabor Hall, under the theme, “Space Power and National Security.”
The CDS stressed the need for Nigeria to maximise the potential of space technology in addressing emerging security challenges, improving intelligence gathering and strengthening military operations across the country.
He commended the Defence Space Administration for its achievements, particularly the launch of DelSat-1, the establishment of geospatial intelligence infrastructure, the deployment of a Modular Earth Observation Outpost at the Headquarters of Operation HADIN KAI, and the commencement of academic activities at the Defence Space School, Orogun.
Oluyede charged the DSA to intensify indigenous research and development, improve the reliability and security of space-based products, and ensure their effective integration into joint military operations and inter-agency security efforts.
According to him, stronger space capabilities would provide the Armed Forces with critical intelligence and technological advantages needed to respond effectively to evolving security threats.
He also emphasised the importance of collaboration among the Armed Forces, academic institutions, industries and relevant government agencies to accelerate local 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 stronger synergy among the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy and Nigerian Air Force to improve joint operational effectiveness.
Ilodibia also stressed the need for sustained collaboration with the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), the Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT) and other relevant stakeholders to advance Nigeria’s space capabilities.
He noted that closer cooperation among defence institutions and national space agencies would be critical to developing technological solutions that support military operations, strengthen national security and promote broader national development.
The inaugural DSA Day Celebration underscored the growing importance of space technology in modern warfare and the need for Nigeria to strengthen its indigenous capabilities to meet current and future security challenges.
