In a groundbreaking development, Nigeria has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Space Exploration and Research Agency (SERA) from Delaware, USA, to send the first Nigerian to space.
The MoU was signed in Abuja, marking a significant step in Nigeria’s space exploration ambitions.
A Major Aspiration Realized
Chief Uche Nnaji, the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, highlighted the importance of this partnership at the MoU signing ceremony.
“Human spaceflight is not just a random aspiration of our country but a major objective of the Nigeria Space Policy and Programme, which was approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) in 2001,” Nnaji stated.
He emphasized that reviving and implementing abandoned national plans is a key part of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“This partnership provides a way of achieving our long-time aspiration as a nation,” he added.
Timeline and Sponsorship
Dr. Matthew Adepoju, Director-General of the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), revealed that the cost of sending a Nigerian to space would be fully sponsored by SERA.
He noted that the slot could be available as early as December this year or in 2025, depending on the test runs of the platform by SERA.
“This event marks the commencement of the agency’s efforts to implement part of its roadmap of having a human spaceflight,” Adepoju said.
He also highlighted that the signing coincided with the 25th anniversary of Nigeria’s space programme.
Strategic Objectives and Opportunities
The Human Spaceflight programme is a central element of Nigeria’s National Space Policy and Programme. Dr. Adepoju mentioned, “It was with this in mind that we established the Department of Physical and Life Sciences about three years ago to forge this mandate.”
He also pointed out that the collaboration with SERA would open up numerous opportunities for Nigerians, including various spinoffs from deep space exploration.
SERA’s Commitment
Mr. Joshua Skurla, Co-Founder of SERA, expressed excitement about the partnership.
“Eighty per cent of astronauts globally have emanated from just three countries,” Skurla noted, highlighting the significance of Nigeria’s entry into the field.
He added, “Nigeria has a rich history of scientific and technological innovation. SERA is thrilled to partner with NASRDA to extend this legacy into space and create new opportunities for Nigerian space explorers.”
Democratic Selection Process
Mr. Sam Hutchison, Founder of SERA, explained the selection process for the Nigerian astronaut. “The application to be in space is open to any Nigerian older than 18 years, regardless of their discipline,” Hutchison stated.
He emphasized that the selection process would be democratic, allowing Nigerians to vote for the candidates.
“The Nigerian people will choose the citizen to go to space. The process of application will be open to anybody who is over 18 years, and there are no other qualifications required.
You will be able to sign up and then encourage others to vote for you. As part of a democratic process, the Nigerian people will select four potential astronaut candidates before a final selection process,” he explained.
This historic MoU between Nigeria and SERA marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s space exploration journey.
As the nation prepares to send its first citizen to space, this partnership not only fulfills a long-standing national aspiration but also opens up a new frontier of opportunities for scientific and technological advancements.
