The National Space Research Development Agency (NASRDA), Nigeria’s premier space agency, has been allocated over N629 million for projects unrelated to its core mandate. This development has raised concerns about the diversion of funds from essential space research initiatives.
According to the 2024 Fiscal Appropriation Act, NASRDA has been budgeted to spend millions on projects such as sensitization against rape and unwanted pregnancy, provision of metal dustbins and sanitation materials, training and empowerment of clergymen, traditional rulers, and heads of communities, and provision of hand pumps in various states.
*A Detour from Space Research*
NASRDA’s mandate is to drive Nigeria’s space science and technology development. However, the allocated funds suggest a detour from this focus. The agency’s scope includes basic space science research, engineering development, and satellite data acquisition, among others.
*Unrelated Projects Siphon Funds*
A breakdown of the budgetary allocations reveals:
– N80 million for sensitization against rape and unwanted pregnancy
– N80 million for metal dustbins and sanitation materials
– N170 million for training and empowerment of clergymen, traditional rulers, and heads of communities
– N299,592,652 for hand pumps in Kaduna State
– N30 million for hand pumps and boreholes in Kano State
– N50 million for motorcycles in Mbakpor Community
*Concerns and Implications*
This development has sparked concerns about the government’s commitment to space research and technology development. The diversion of funds to unrelated projects may hinder NASRDA’s ability to fulfill its mandate and contribute to Nigeria’s growth in the space sector.
As Nigeria strives to take its place in the global space community, it is essential to prioritize funding for space research and technology development. The allocation of funds to unrelated projects may undermine NASRDA’s efforts and impact the country’s progress in this critical sector.