The Federal Government has announced plans to develop a National Space Strategy and implement the recently approved National Artificial Intelligence Trust, according to a statement by the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, on Thursday. The announcement follows a strategic meeting between Dr. Tijani and the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, to coordinate efforts aimed at advancing Nigeria’s space and artificial intelligence (AI) sectors.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Dr. Tijani highlighted the outcomes of the meeting, emphasizing the alignment between both ministries on the need for a comprehensive National Space Strategy. “It was a productive meeting with my colleague, Chief Uche Nnaji, to discuss the development of a National Space Strategy for Nigeria. We are united in our commitment to creating a well-defined framework that outlines Nigeria’s position and ambitions in the space sector,” he stated.
The proposed National Space Strategy will focus on defining Nigeria’s role and objectives in areas such as satellite technology, space exploration, and other related fields. To achieve this, the government will establish a committee comprising representatives from both ministries, as well as other relevant agencies, to draft a detailed framework for the country’s space ambitions.
In addition to the space strategy, the ministers discussed the implementation of the National AI Trust, which was recently approved by the Federal Executive Council. Dr. Tijani confirmed that Chief Nnaji will play a key role in the leadership of the AI Trust, ensuring cross-ministerial collaboration to drive AI innovation and governance in Nigeria.
The AI Trust will consist of 10 members, including AI experts and government officials from the Ministries of Communications and Digital Economy, as well as Innovation, Science, and Technology. The initiative aims to safeguard Nigeria’s investments in AI, recognizing the transformative potential of the technology in fostering job creation, economic growth, and attracting foreign direct investment across critical sectors of the economy.
This coordinated approach underscores the government’s commitment to leveraging emerging technologies to position Nigeria as a competitive player in the global digital and space economies.
