The Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, has emphasized the urgent need to harness space technology as a strategic tool in combating illegal activities plaguing Nigeria’s steel sector.
The Minister stated this during a courtesy visit by the Director General of the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), Dr. Matthew Adepoju, and his management team to his office in Abuja.
Prince Audu highlighted the critical role of science and technology in industrial reform, stating that space-based solutions can deliver accurate, real-time insights into operations within the mining and steel sectors.
The Minister lamented the continued challenges in the steel industry, especially issues related to illegal mining activities and the widespread dissemination of inaccurate data by miners.
According to him, these activities not only undermine the nation’s economic potential but also frustrate regulatory efforts and long-term planning.
Prince Audu who advocated for the use of geospatial data in discovering new mining sites, particularly those rich in iron ore which is a critical resource for steel production said, time has come to move beyond traditional monitoring systems and adopt smarter, satellite-enabled alternatives.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Steel Development, Dr. Chris Isokpunwu, in his remarks, stated that the visit by the NASRDA Team was very enlightening and expressed excitement about the possible areas of collaboration.
Dr Isokpunwu revealed that the Ministry had proposed the development of a National Steel Sector Development Data System, adding that the application of space science and technology would greatly enhance the creation and effectiveness of such a comprehensive database.
In his remarks, the Director General and Chief Executive of NASRDA, Dr. Matthew Adepoju, assured the Honourable Minister of the Agency’s readiness to provide technical support through its array of space assets and skilled manpower.
Dr. Adepoju who explained the role of satellite imagery and remote sensing in identifying unlicensed mining sites, also highlighted its ability to track operational patterns which will ensure accountability in resource extraction.
He thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the launch of four new satellites, saying that they will play a crucial role in combating the challenges faced by the steel development sector.
Dr. Adepoju added that with Nigeria’s space capabilities steadily expanding, it was only logical to begin applying these tools for national economic development, especially in sectors like steel, which form the bedrock of industrialization.
Highlight of the visit was the presentation by the NASRDA Team on, “Sustainable Steel development through the exploration of iron ore an alloys and protection of the mineral sites in Nigeria.”