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By Daniel Adaji
The National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) and the Office of the Surveyor General of the Federation (OSGOF) are teaming up to curb brain drain and boost national capacity through technology-driven partnerships.
This commitment was made during a courtesy visit by NASRDA’s Director General, Dr. Matthew Adepoju, and his team to the Office of the Surveyor General in Abuja.
Dr. Felix Ale, Director of Media and Corporate Communications at NASRDA disclosed this in a statement shared with Pointblanknews.com on Thursday.
Speaking at the meeting, the Surveyor General, Abdulganiyu Adebomehin, highlighted the importance of supporting homegrown solutions, especially in satellite data sourcing.
“Relying on external sources for satellite data not only drains the country’s revenue in foreign currencies but also undermines national capacity building,” he said.
He called on Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to obtain satellite data directly from NASRDA to strengthen local expertise and retain skilled professionals.
According to him, a key part of addressing the brain drain is creating “an enabling environment that not only stops the continued exodus of Nigerian talent but also retains skilled professionals.”
The Surveyor General stressed that technological innovation is central to modern surveying practices, pointing out the relevance of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), data digitization, and software tools.
“While digitizing data is essential, the real value lies in translating that data into actionable insights and solutions that tackle real-life challenges,” he said.
He also called for the establishment of a satellite-based system and modern software to support nationwide surveying efforts, a goal he believes NASRDA is well positioned to help achieve.
“NASRDA plays an integral role in the actualization of such projects,” he said.
Adebomehin expressed appreciation for NASRDA’s support, particularly in the OSGOF land use analysis program. He reaffirmed OSGOF’s commitment to working closely with the space agency.
“We fully support NASRDA’s initiatives and pledge continued collaboration in the shared mission of national transformation,” he said.
On his part, NASRDA’s DG, Dr. Matthew Adepoju, assured that the agency is committed to partnerships that promote national development.
“No single agency should be left to handle a task alone when multiple organizations and agencies can collaborate to achieve a unified goal,” he said.
Adepoju also announced that the President has approved the launch of four new satellites, including a Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite, expected to significantly enhance national mapping and surveying.
“The most effective way to conduct mapping is through space technology, which has its origins in surveying,” he added.
He further revealed presidential approval for NASRDA to begin space regulation and spectrum management. He warned that the lack of regulation in space-related infrastructure has already had negative consequences.
“The mismanagement of space-related activities has done more harm than good to the country,” he said, referencing health risks linked to unregulated telecom mast installations.
Adepoju thanked Adebomehin for his collaborative approach and pledged a sustained partnership between NASRDA and OSGOF. “Collaboration is key to the success of national projects and programmes,” he stated.