The President of the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI), Chief Emeka Obegolu, SAN, has called on the Nigerian government and other African nations to prioritise the economic opportunities available in the space sector.
Speaking ahead of the second edition of the Africa Space Economy Conference and Exhibition (ASEC), Obegolu emphasized Africa’s readiness to engage in the rapidly evolving global space economy.
Represented by ACCI’s Director-General, Agabaidu Jideani, Obegolu noted that while space has traditionally been associated with scientific exploration and geopolitical interests, it is now emerging as a significant driver of economic growth.
He said that Africa, despite facing challenges such as low awareness, infrastructure gaps, and developing regulatory frameworks, is well-positioned to benefit from the transformative potential of space-based technologies.
“These challenges are not just obstacles—they are opportunities for innovation, partnership, and investment,” he stated. “It was with this vision that ACCI, through our Policy Advocacy Centre and in collaboration with the National Space Research and Development Agency (NARSDA), launched ASEC.”
Obegolu highlighted that the inaugural ASEC in 2023 drew over 350 participants and successfully fostered new business partnerships.
He said this year’s edition, scheduled for June 17 to 19 in Abuja, aims to expand on that foundation by exploring the role of space technology in economic diversification, infrastructure development, and sustainable growth across the continent.
“ASEC offers a collaborative space for government officials, academics, private sector players, and innovators to connect, share ideas, and build the future of Africa’s space economy,” he said. “It is an ideal platform for start-ups to present their innovations, for investors to find high-yield opportunities, and for stakeholders to shape policies that de-risk and drive sector growth.”
Obegolu also stated that Nigeria has a competitive advantage as a potential regional leader in space-driven economic development, citing the country’s strategic location, growing innovation ecosystem, and rich human capital.
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Speaking at the event, the Director-General of NARSDA, Dr. Matthew Adepoju, reinforced the importance of space in Africa’s development agenda. “We are in the era of the fourth industrial revolution,” he said. “Africa must not be left behind. Space technology represents the frontier of global innovation, and we must seize this moment to lead.”
