A Professor of Space Physics at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, Ondo State, Sola Fayose, has called on the Federal Government to invest heavily in indigenous space research and technology development to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported space products and services.
Fayose warned that Nigeria risked remaining a mere consumer in the global space industry unless deliberate efforts were made to strengthen local research capacity and encourage the production of homegrown space technologies.
The professor made the call on Tuesday while delivering the 62nd inaugural lecture of the university titled, “Earth and Extraterrestrial Intelligence: Nexus for Human Existence and Comfort.”
He said investment in space science would not only position Nigeria among global producers of space technologies but also stimulate economic growth, create employment opportunities and improve national security.
According to him, space research has direct applications in modern life, including telecommunications, internet services, satellite broadcasting, navigation systems, banking operations and military technology.
The don explained that studies relating to the space environment had contributed immensely to scientific advancement and improved human living conditions across sectors such as agriculture, health, transportation and education.
Fayose noted that the Sun remained the major source of electromagnetic energy sustaining life on Earth, adding that understanding the relationship between Earth and outer space was crucial to improving human existence.
He also stressed the need for the government to provide adequate funding for research institutions and space centres, particularly Centres for Space Research and Applications, to enable them contribute meaningfully to national development.
The professor further advocated the establishment of programmes aimed at attracting young Nigerians into postgraduate research in space science and related high-tech fields.
He urged the government to provide modern facilities for deep-space research and ensure stable electricity supply in universities and research institutes to enhance scientific innovation.
Fayose also called for stronger collaboration between universities and agencies such as the National Space Research and Development Agency to improve access to research data and strengthen local capacity.
In addition, he recommended the introduction of Space Physics as an undergraduate course in Nigerian universities, suggesting that science subjects should also be taught in indigenous languages to improve students’ understanding.
Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, described the inaugural lecture as a platform for promoting intellectual discourse and celebrating academic excellence within the institution.
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