The National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) and the University of Ibadan (UI) on Tuesday, December 2, 2025 signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for collaborative research activities as well as resource utilization at the newly-established NASRDA Centre for Space Life Sciences (CSLS) situated within the UI Campus, Ibadan, Oyo State. This milestone event marks a significant step in advancing space research and development in Nigeria, with a focus on space life sciences.
The event was widely attended by dignitaries including the Director-General of NASRDA, Dr. Matthew Olumide Adepoju, FGEOSON, the Vice-Chancellor of University of Ibadan, Prof. Kayode Oyebode Adebowale, FAS, and other Principal Officers of the University. Also in attendance were some notable Directors from NASRDA, which include; Engr. Dr. Sadiq Abubakar Umar, FNSE (Director-Centre for Satellite Technology Development, Abuja), Engr. Dr. Chichebe Akachukwu (Director-Ground Station and Mission Control Dept.), Engr. Dr. Ikpaya David Ikpaya (Director-Engineering, and Space Systems Dept.), Prof. Benjamin Gbenro Ayantunji, FNIP (Director-Physical and Life Sciences Dept.), Barr. Dr. Yahaya Isah (Ag. Director-Legal Services Dept.), Engr. Dr. Seyi Festus Olatoyinbo, FNSE (Director-African Regional Centre for Space Science and Technology Education in English [ARCSSTE-E], OAU Campus, Ile-Ife), Dr. Joshua Iliya (Director-Zonal Advanced Space Technology Applications Laboratory (COPINE), Ile-Ife, ably represented by Mr. Yinka Olaopa), the Acting Director of the new Centre, Dr. Olakunle Rufus Oladosu, and the Management and some staff members of ARCSSTE-E.
Group Photographs: Dignitaries at the MoU signing Ceremony, including Dr. MatthewAdepoju (DG -NASRDA), Prof. Kayode Adebowale (VC-UI), Directors from NASRDA, ARCSSTE-E and some Principal Officers of the Host University-UI
MOU SPEECH HIGHLIGHTS:
– Dr. Matthew Adepoju: “The establishment of the Centre for Space Life Sciences, within the premier University of Ibadan, is a significant milestone in Nigeria’s space research and development journey”
– Prof. Kayode Adebowale: “The University of Ibadan is committed to advancing space science and technology, and we look forward to collaborating with NASRDA on this initiative”
THE DIRECTOR GENERAL’S INAUGURAL REMARKS:
The Director-General of NASRDA, Dr. Matthew Olumide Adepoju, expressed his joy and gratitude to the staff who attended the groundbreaking event, saying it was unexpected to see such a large turnout. He appreciated the efforts of the staff and emphasized the importance of unity and love among Nigerians, regardless of their geographical location. The Director General’s speech was met with applause and appreciation from the staff, who were encouraged by his words and commitment to the Agency’s growth and development.
