- Nigeria and SERA signed an MoU to send the first Nigerian to space, fulfilling a long-standing national aspiration
- The initiative, fully funded by SERA, aligns with Nigeria’s Space Policy and Programme, marking a significant milestone in space exploration
Nigeria, in partnership with the Space Exploration and Research Agency (SERA) based in Delaware, USA, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to send the first Nigerian to space.
Chief Uche Nnaji, Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, announced this at yesterday’s MoU signing ceremony in Abuja, emphasizing that human spaceflight is a key aspiration for Nigeria.
“Human spaceflight is not merely an arbitrary goal for our nation but a fundamental objective outlined in Nigeria’s Space Policy and Programme, ratified by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) in 2001.”
“Revitalizing and executing all neglected national plans is a pivotal aspect of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. This collaboration presents an avenue to fulfil our longstanding national aspiration,” he stated.
The minister indicated that the opportunity could be available anytime between now and December 2025, as SERA continues to test its platform.
Dr. Matthew Adepoju, Director-General of the Nigerian Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), mentioned that SERA has covered the entire cost of sending a Nigerian to space. He highlighted that this initiative marks the commencement of NASRDA’s efforts to implement its roadmap for human spaceflight.
“This event is worth celebrating, especially as Nigeria marks 25 years since the inception of its space program. Human spaceflight is a cornerstone of our National Space Policy and Programme, and establishing the Department of Physical and Life Sciences three years ago underscores our commitment to this mandate.”
Mr. Joshua Skurla, Co-Founder of SERA, noted that 80% of astronauts globally originate from just three countries. He praised Nigeria’s rich history of scientific and technological innovation and expressed SERA’s enthusiasm for extending this legacy into space and creating new opportunities for Nigerian space explorers.
Mr. Sam Hutchison, Founder of SERA, emphasized that the application process to become an astronaut is open to any Nigerian over 18 years of age, regardless of their field of study.
“The Nigerian public will select the candidate to go to space. The application process will be open to all individuals over 18, with no specific qualifications required. Applicants can register and garner public support through a democratic voting process. Ultimately, the Nigerian people will choose four potential astronaut candidates before making a final selection.”