In a momentous alliance, the Space Exploration & Research Agency (SERA) and Nigeria’s National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) have united to pioneer the first Nigerian citizen’s journey into space. This landmark partnership marks a significant stride in Nigeria’s space exploration endeavours. It opens up new horizons for scientific research and technological advancements.
SERA, in its commitment to inclusivity, has secured a seat for a Nigerian on an upcoming Blue Origin New Shepard suborbital spaceflight. This initiative is a testament to SERA’s mission to bring individuals from underrepresented countries to the forefront of space exploration.
Joshua Skurla, Co-Founder of SERA, emphasised the exclusivity of space exploration. Over 80% of astronauts hail from just three countries. SERA aims to expand global participation in the space sector, focusing on nations historically underrepresented in space endeavours.
Established in 1999, NASRDA aims to advance Nigeria’s socio-economic development through space technology. Since launching its first satellite in 2003, Nigeria has launched five more satellites, making significant strides in space technology.
Chief Uche Godfrey Nnaji, Nigeria’s Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, underscored the importance of human spaceflight as a key objective of Nigeria’s Space Policy and Program. Dr. Matthew Adepoju, Director General of NASRDA, expressed his enthusiasm about the collaboration, seeing it as a significant stride towards realising Nigeria’s space ambitions.
The Nigerian NGO Learnspace Foundation, led by Dr. Anne Agi, played a crucial role in securing Nigeria’s participation in this mission. Dr. Agi emphasised the inspirational impact of space exploration on future generations.
This privately funded initiative underscores SERA’s commitment to making space accessible and fostering international collaboration. It builds on SERA’s success in sending Victor Hespanha, a Brazilian civil engineer, to space in 2022.
Phil Joyce, Senior Vice President of Blue Origin’s New Shepard program, expressed pride in supporting SERA and NASRDA’s efforts to send the first Nigerian to space and aimed to inspire future space explorers.
As Nigeria prepares for this historic journey, the collaboration represents a significant step in democratising space exploration and inspiring future generations of scientists and explorers across Africa and beyond.
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