‎Game-Changer for Nat’l Security: Sen. Abbas Hails Tinubu’s Approval of Nigeria’s First Fully Indigenous Satellite

By Emmanuel Kwada 

‎Senator Aminu Iya Abbas, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Science and Technology, has announced that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has granted full approval for the design, fabrication, and launch of Nigeria’s first 100 percent indigenous satellite.

‎Speaking at a well-attended press briefing in Abuja on Thursday, the Adamawa Central lawmaker described the presidential approval as a historic leap that will revolutionise national security, combat insurgency and kidnapping through real-time intelligence, secure the nation’s borders, and deliver accurate weather forecasting to farmers across the country.

‎“This satellite is completely Nigerian – conceived, designed, and to be built by our own engineers using our resources. It is a proud milestone and an absolute game-changer for national security and developmental planning,” Senator Abbas declared.

‎He further revealed that the committee under his leadership has this year established Technology Incubation Centres in all 36 states and the FCT, creating fertile ground for young innovators to birth the industries of tomorrow, while also steering the Local Raw Material Content Development Bill through both chambers of the National Assembly.

The bill, now awaiting presidential assent, will compel value addition to Nigeria’s mineral and agricultural resources before export and is projected to generate thousands of jobs, especially for women and youths.

‎While celebrating these breakthroughs, Senator Abbas expressed concern over the continued delay in releasing the 2024 and 2025 capital components earmarked for science and technology projects.

‎“Every project is packaged and ready. Engineers and contractors are on standby across the country. The moment the funds are released, Nigerians will witness rapid and visible transformation,” he assured.

‎The distinguished senator reiterated his total commitment to ensuring Nigeria joins the league of technologically advanced nations, stressing that the structures, policies, and laws are now firmly in place and only require timely funding to deliver lasting results.

‎The indigenous satellite project is being driven by the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) in partnership with Nigerian universities and private tech firms, with launch scheduled within the next 24 to 30 months.