NASRDA, EFCC Join Forces to Deploy Geospatial Intelligence Against Crime

The National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have entered into a strategic partnership to deploy geospatial intelligence in the fight against crime and to strengthen accountability within Nigeria’s growing space sector.

The collaboration was formalised with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja.

Speaking at the event, NASRDA Director-General, Dr. Matthew Adepoju, said the use of advanced space and geospatial technologies would significantly enhance national security and support more effective crime prevention. He noted that the partnership would also reinforce the implementation of national space regulations, improve spectrum management, and strengthen oversight of activities within Nigeria’s rapidly expanding space ecosystem.

In a statement issued by NASRDA’s Director of Media and Corporate Communications, Dr. Felix Ale, Adepoju described the MoU as a major milestone in the pursuit of justice and accountability. He stressed that the agreement would ensure full compliance with existing laws and regulatory frameworks by both local and international organisations operating in Nigeria’s space sector.

The NASRDA boss identified illegal mining as a key driver of insecurity across the country, reaffirming the agency’s commitment to regulating operators across the upstream, midstream, and downstream segments of the space sector to ensure adherence to legal requirements.

Adepoju said the EFCC was well suited for the partnership, citing the commission’s strong leadership, effective institutional management, and track record under its Chairman, Olanipekun Olukoyede.

According to him, NASRDA will deploy cutting-edge space and geospatial technologies to support the EFCC in carrying out its mandate more efficiently and in line with international best practices.

He described the collaboration as the beginning of a new chapter for both institutions, promising stronger enforcement, enhanced national security, and a more transparent and compliant space sector in Nigeria.