The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI), and National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) have partnered to advance Africa’s space economy, thereby creating opportunities for economic growth.
Chief Emeka Obegolu, President, ACCI, said this while addressing newsmen on the second edition of Africa Space Economy Conference and Exhibition (ASEC), in Abuja on Friday.
Obegolu, who was represented by the Director-General of the ACCI, Mr Agabaidu Jideani, said that the exhibition was tagged, “Space Economy and Emerging Markets in Africa”.
He said that Nigeria was begining to witness a fundamental shift where space was rapidly becoming a powerful driver of economic opportunity, adding that Africa stands on the threshold of unlocking its immense potential.
“Although we face challenges like limited awareness, infrastructure deficits and evolving policy frameworks, these hurdles present fertile ground for innovation, collaboration, and investment.
“It was with this foresight that ACCI, through our Policy Advocacy Centre, in a strategic partnership with NASRDA, conceptualised the ASEC.
“Our goal is to create a dynamic and inclusive platform where government, industry, academics, and investors can come together to shape the future of Africa’s space economy,” he said.
The director-general said that the inaugural edition of the ASEC in 2023 was a resounding success, attracting over 350 participants and facilitating meaningful partnerships, and business deals.
According to him, the second edition, which is expected to hold in Abuja between June 17 and June 19, will build on that strong foundation.
He said that the theme reflected the shared commitment to deepen engagement, expand strategic alliances, and position Africa as a formidable player in the global space economy.
He said that the conference would delve into how space-based technologies could drive economic diversification, strengthen critical infrastructure, and support sustainable development across the continent.
“For business leaders, entrepreneurs and innovators, ASEC will offer collaborative environment for scientists, technologists, and private sector actors to explore practical applications of space-based services across diverse industries.
“It is a platform for innovation and investment, where start-ups can showcase their creativity and engage with potential partners, and where investors can identify high-impact, high-return opportunities within this rapidly growing sector.
“With our rich human capital, strategic location, and expanding innovation ecosystem, Nigeria is uniquely positioned to become a regional hub for space-driven economic activities,” he said.
He said that the conference was not just a meeting, but a call to action.
“As the voice of the business community, our mission is to attract both local and international investment,” he said.
The D-G said that the ASEC would foster robust public-private partnerships, as well as advocate for enabling policies that will de-risk and accelerate growth in Africa’s space sector.
He said that it would further propel space innovation and enterprise, not just in Nigeria, but across the African continent and beyond.
“We encourage all members of the business community to engage by visiting the exhibition booths, participating in panel discussions, networking with stakeholders, and exploring the immense potential within Africa’s emerging space economy,” he said.
Dr Mathew Adepoju, Director-General, NASRDA, said that the space sector presented immense opportunities for African businesses to innovate, invest, and generate significant returns.
“This is the Fourth Industrial Revolution, and Africa must not be left behind.
“It is time for us to take our rightful place at the forefront of global innovation, science and technology, with space technology being the pinnacle of human endeavour,” he said.
Mr Osi Imomoh, Chairman, Organising Committee, ASEC 2025, said that the exhibition would bring together government leaders, space agencies, international partners and other relevant stakeholders.
Imomoh said that the idea was for the stakeholders to explore opportunities in satellite technology and entrepreneurship in the space sector.
According to him, with Africa’s space economy projected to grow exponentially, this conference serves as a pivotal platform for dialogue, investment, and strategic partnerships.
