Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji

At the official commissioning of the Advanced Unmanned Aerial Vehicles Laboratory (AUAVL), it was indeed a time to reflect and commend our dear President, H.E., President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR), for his support and effort towards the actualisation of Nigeria's space programme. One of the significant milestones we've attained is the approval by the Federal Executive Council for four new satellites. Three will focus on remote sensing with optical capabilities, while the fourth, a Synthetic Aperture Radar Satellite, will enhance security and surveillance. This progress underscores the critical role of research and innovation in addressing national challenges. The Advanced Unmanned Aerial Vehicles Laboratory (AUAVL) facility is proof of innovative research and progress made towards achieving Nigeria's space ambition. Public-private partnerships are the key to sustaining the space programme and exploring other space opportunities for national development. I am confident that with this collaborative effort, Nigeria can be well-positioned to achieve its space science and technology aspirations. #FMISTDrivesRenewedHope #FMISTwithChiefUcheNnaji #FMISTwithChiefUcheNnajiNwakaibie

I presided over the commissioning of the Advanced Unmanned Aerial Vehicles Laboratory (AUAVL) complex, alongside the Permanent Secretary Mrs. Esuabana Nko Asanye. This a remarkable achievement and in continuation of our 25th celebration of National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) anniversary, marking a groundbreaking contributions to science and innovation. After the event, I addressed the press to emphasise the significance of National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) of the latest inauguration of the Advanced Unmanned Aerial Vehicles Laboratory (AUAVL). These initiatives represent a crucial step forward in advancing technological innovation and scientific research in our nation. They reflect our unwavering commitment to driving progress and ensuring that Nigeria remains at the forefront of global innovation. #FMISTDrivesRenewedHope #FMISTwithChiefUcheNnaji #FMISTwithChiefUcheNnajiNwakaibie

I had the honour of representing His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, Chairman of the Nigeria Space Council, at the commemoration of Nigeria in Space’s 25th anniversary. This milestone celebrates the foresight of our leaders, whose recognition of space science’s transformative potential led to the establishment of NASRDA in 1999 through the Space Act, positioning Nigeria as a leader in African space science and technology. Over 25 years, Nigeria’s space programme has achieved remarkable milestones, including the launch of seven satellites and plans for four more under my administration. These efforts have driven national development, addressed environmental and socioeconomic challenges, and bolstered national security through partnerships like the Defence Space Administration. Central to this progress is the development of indigenous expertise, reducing reliance on foreign support and fostering sustainability. Institutions such as NigComSat Ltd. have driven advancements in communication, security, and technology, showcasing the immense potential of space science to transform lives. However, sustaining this progress requires legislative action to prioritise funding, strengthen the NASRDA Act, and encourage private sector participation, unlocking the sector’s full potential. By embracing the peaceful use of space, Nigeria can drive innovation, attract investment, and maintain leadership in Africa. Awards presented at the anniversary honoured individuals whose contributions inspire us to achieve greater heights as we advance national development and global cooperation in space science and technology. #FMISTDrivesRenewedHope #FMISTwithChiefUcheNnaji #FMISTwithChiefUcheNnajiNwakaibie

My heartfelt congratulations to all Nigerians today, and to the Chairman of the Nigeria Space Council, His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR), as we celebrate 25 years of Nigeria's achievements in space science and technology. Our success has been powered by the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) under the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology, with the Defence Space Administration and the Nigeria Communication Satellite Company Limited playing collaborative roles to harness space technology for national development. Under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership, transformative initiatives have advanced our space technology. The replacement of NASRDA’s Earth observation satellites positions Nigeria as a global exporter of space-based services. Regulatory oversight enhances service delivery and bolsters national security, while leveraging space technology to monitor federal revenue curbs leakages and drives economic growth. Building on milestones such as the launch of NigeriaSat-1 (2003), NigComSat-1 (2007), and NigeriaSat-2 and NigeriaSat-X (2011), alongside the NASRDA Act of 2010, Nigeria has emerged as a leader in Africa's space sector. Looking ahead, private-sector partnerships will strengthen Nigeria’s role in the global space economy through commercial space travel, satellite technology, Low Earth Orbit (LEO) ventures, and industrial growth driven by technology transfer. These efforts will fuel innovation and economic transformation. Satellites power communication, navigation, and healthcare. From remote diagnostics and agricultural monitoring to financial systems, space technology is a vital part of modern life and infrastructure. Let us celebrate this moment as a testament to Nigeria's readiness to embrace space science as a cornerstone for national growth. The collaboration of NASRDA, NigComSat Ltd., and the Defence Space Administration aligns with Presidential priorities, ensuring space technology remains a driver of sustainable development. #FMISTDrivesRenewedHope #FMISTwithChiefUcheNnaji #FMISTwithChiefUcheNnajiNwakaibie

The senior management team of Bassa Construction Consolidated Group Africa Holdings Limited (BASCON Group), a leading South African company, alongside their Nigerian counterparts, held engaging discussions focused on two critical areas: renewable energy and infrastructure development with my team and I yesterday. Performance-focused engagements such as these are crucial to fine-tune strategy direction and further strengthen our open-door policy for expert engagement, because these sectors are critical for Nigeria’s sustainable energy future, with a proactive economic agenda that secures progress and creates jobs. We are fully vested in fostering partnerships that bring innovative solutions and impactful investments to our nation, especially in critical sectors like understudying science-backed and research-oriented renewable energy technological solutions and the infrastructure that sustains it. Members of the BASCON Group included Calvin Bassa, Anton Adriaan, Charles Hofman, Gary Adriaan, and Patrick Adepoju, while the Nigerian delegation included Ernest Akhilele, Dr. Lucas Adamu, Hon. Barr Doris Onyali, and Comrade Chinedu. As we continue to work towards the realisation of His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR) Renewed Hope Agenda, strengthening partnerships that lead to knowledge exchange and technological collaborations will continue to guide our drive for innovation-based growth that solves today’s challenges. #FMISTDrivesRenewedHope #FMISTwithChiefUcheNnaji

My team and I recently held a meeting with the U.S. Ambassador Richard Mills, the Environment, Science, Technology, and Health Officer, Alan Bishop, and the Counselor for Economic Affairs, Christine Harbaugh. The discussions centred on critical priorities, including leveraging technical innovations to enhance food security, implementing the Ministry’s strategy to achieve at least 30% value addition to Nigeria's exportable raw materials, and advancing efforts in space exploration. The meeting was also attended by the Directors-General of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), Prof. Nnanyelugo Ike-Muonso, and the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), Dr. Matthew Olumide Adepoju. These high-level deliberations underscore the importance of fostering collaboration and innovation to drive Nigeria’s sustainable growth and development. #FMISTDrivesRenewedHope #FMISTwithChiefUcheNnaji

Yesterday, I presided over the inaugural workshop for the International Geoscience and Geopark Programme Nigeria National Committee (IGGP-NNC), held in collaboration with UNESCO, with representatives from the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency (NGSA), the House Committee on Solid Mineral Development, and other key stakeholders from academia, policy-making, and the private sector. Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) cuts across all sectors, making it pivotal to Nigeria's development. Hence, we have aligned the ministry's geoscience initiatives with the global objectives of the International Geoscience and Geoparks Programme (IGGP). As a country, Nigeria is committed to promoting UNESCO Global Geoparks. Geoparks have the potential to transform livelihoods, foster research and innovation, and drive sustainable development. Therefore, the ministry is ready to support the IGGP through robust policies, strategic projects, and a wealth of human resources because we understand its power to integrate geological heritage with local community development. With the inauguration of the Geopark Programme Nigeria National Committee (IGGP-NNC), its committee members were onboarded and educated through technical presentations, providing them with the tools and knowledge to advance Nigeria's geoscientific agenda and enhance its global standing in the geoscience community. The Nigerian Geological Survey Agency is assured of our continued support as a ministry to ensure the IGGP-NNC achieves its objectives. Let me once again encourage members to perform the tasks outlined within the guidelines with diligence and excellence. As we get the job done through the collaboration with the Nigerian National Commission for UNESCO, the outcomes will include endorsing IGCP project proposals from Nigeria, nominating candidates for the IGCP Scientific Board, advancing and revalidating UNESCO Global Geopark projects, increasing awareness of Nigeria’s geological heritage, and enhancing international collaboration among UNESCO Global Geoparks.

At the 9th Nigeria Mining Week, I represented our dear President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR), to underscore the immense potential of the mining sector driven by a vision to make it the cornerstone of our economy growth propelling inclusivity for our mineral wealth As the President’s representative, I shared our transformative vision for the sector, highlighting its critical role in Nigeria’s economic diversification as captured in the #RenewedHope Agenda. Especially as regards; policy driven reforms, infrastructure development and more. On his behalf, I emphasized also, the mining sector’s contribution to economic growth. It's worthy of note to see that Honourable Minister, Dr Dele Alake, through visionary leadership is driving reforms and innovation, positioning the sector as a key driver of development. It is imperative to note the importance of infrastructure, human capital development, and responsible mining practices, supported by public-private partnerships, to unlock the full potential of Nigeria's mining industry while prioritising sustainability and community welfare. Reforming and improving the sector, is a critical goal the administration has committed to, so that the mining sector will become a pillar of development. On that premise, I must echo His Excellency, our President's clarion call for unity and collaboration among all stakeholders. The Nigeria Mining Week 2024 marks a huge milestone towards harnessing our mineral wealth for inclusive and sustainable growth. With unwavering support from the federal government, the mining sector has begun to play a transformative role in shaping the nation’s economic future. I extend my sincere appreciation to the President for the opportunity to represent him at this event, and for his vision for Nigeria, as articulated through the Renewed Hope Agenda, which continues to show immense progress towards the development and growth of critical sectors. Thank you, Mr. President, His Excellency, Sen. Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR) #FMISTDrivesRenewedHope #FMISTwithChiefUcheNnaji

Wishing all the men of the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, including its Directors, DG/CEOs, staff, and the management of its agencies, a Happy International Men’s Day. #InternationalMensDay #MenOfInnovation #ScienceAndTechnology #IMD2024

Today, we launched the Grand Challenges Nigeria Project (GCNg) as part of the Grand Challenges partnership network, a global initiative designed to foster local innovations to address critical issues in science, health, food systems, and development. Through this project, the Ministry will empower Nigerian innovators and inventors with access to funding, mentorship, and essential resources, promoting human capital development at all levels. Knowing that our inventors are the lifeblood of this initiative, they are visionaries who challenge the status quo and turn ideas into reality. As you know, today’s challenges such as climate change, food security, health, and technology access require bold, creative solutions. As a Ministry, we are building a culture of innovation grounded in sustainability and inclusivity, positioning us on a transformative path aligned with the President’s agenda. The Grand Challenges initiative provides a collaborative platform that unites government, academia, the private sector, and development partners. So, together we can identify pressing issues and harness our brightest minds to create impactful solutions. With combined resources and expertise, implementing multidimensional strategies with far-reaching benefits becomes a reality, contributing to His Excellency President Bola Tinubu’s (GCFR) goals of inclusive prosperity and strengthened national development. Nigeria is rich in intellectual talent, with universities and research institutions full of promise. For this reason, an enabling environment that nurtures this talent and encourages innovative thinking, integrates entrepreneurship and critical thinking is paramount to include into the curricula at all levels, this way, we prepare our youth. Our cultural diversity and resource richness provide a unique foundation for creating a sustainable, prosperous future, hence, the Grand Challenges Nigeria Project will break down barriers to participation, ensuring all Nigerians have the chance to shape their future. The Grand Challenges Nigeria Project encourages innovation using the vehicle of education. So, I call on all stakeholders to join in this transformative endeavour. As we commit to collaboration, nurture talent, and cultivate an innovative landscape. Deep recognition goes to our President for his resoluteness through the 8-point agenda, driving progress as exemplified by projects like the GCNg. To the Vice President, the Chief Launcher of this initiative, Sen. Kashim Shettima (GCON), we extend our gratitude for his support. Our greatest resource is our people. As we empower researchers and innovators with funding, mentorship, and collaboration opportunities, we are unlocking Nigeria’s immense intellectual potential. With a special focus on youth, women, and marginalised groups, we ensure their voices drive meaningful change.