The Niger State Government has announced plans to establish a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to foster a formal partnership with the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), in a move aimed at leveraging space technology for socio-economic development within the state.
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, known for his forward-thinking approach to agricultural and technological development, has mandated the Commissioner for Communication, Technology, and Digital Economy, Suleiman Isah, to initiate discussions with NASRDA to explore areas of mutual interest and strategic collaboration.
This directive, according to government sources, is part of the governor’s broader vision to integrate cutting-edge technology into key sectors such as agriculture, urban planning, disaster management, and environmental monitoring. The proposed SPV will serve as a structured platform through which both parties can channel resources, expertise, and innovation toward achieving measurable impact for the state’s growing population.
Governor Bago, who has often referred to himself as “a farmer in politics,” is seeking to transform Niger State into a model for digital integration and space-based intelligence to boost productivity and efficient governance.
The state government believes that working with NASRDA will unlock new opportunities in precision farming, satellite mapping, and geospatial data management, which are essential tools in modern development planning and agricultural enhancement.
As part of the initial phase, the Ministry of Communication, Technology, and Digital Economy will coordinate stakeholder engagement, policy formulation, and the operational framework for the SPV to ensure alignment with the state’s development goals.
This initiative reflects the growing recognition of space technology as a catalyst for economic growth, security, and sustainable development in Nigeria.
