By Daniel Okejeme, Abuja 19 October 2023 | 7:50 am Human rights activist, Olisa Agbakoba (SAN), yesterday, sought legal reform and a policy framework for a robust and competitive commercial space sector in Nigeria. Olisa Agbakoba Human rights activist, Olisa Agbakoba (SAN), yesterday, sought legal reform and a policy framework for a robust and competitive commercial space sector in Nigeria. He revealed that the global space economy is estimated to be worth over $400 billion, adding that the United States, reckoned with the largest and most advanced space industry worldwide, is the biggest beneficiary of the sector. In his presentation yesterday at the ongoing Africa Space Economy Conference And Exhibition 2023, with the theme: ‘Exploring Space Economy For Africa’s Economic Growth’ in Abuja, the maritime lawyer advised that the country to strengthen its legal and policy framework and encourage public-private partnerships, by ensuring regulatory licensing of space systems and services are transparent and consistent with national goals. Represented by Seun Ayomide Akinade, the senior lawyer added that the government should also work to reduce regulatory burden and create the flexibility necessary to accommodate innovation and technological demands, by identifying key suppliers and manufacturers, as well as incentivising them to invest in Nigeria. He urged it to facilitate new market opportunities for commercial space capabilities and services, adding that space technology would power the next industrial revolution, hence the need for a thriving entrepreneurial environment. Agbakoba, therefore, said Nigeria must seek critical partners in the development of its space economy. These, along with appropriate funding and strategic planning, he noted, could assist the country and Africa as a whole harness the vast potential of their space sector for the benefit of the people and the global community. He explained that the African story is not as gloomy as thought, but admitted that the continent was lagging behind other regions, though with signs of growth. The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) ex-president reminded the audience that India and Japan have developed their space industries, with the former recently conducting its first robotic Lunar and Mars mission. 13 mins ago Human rights activist, Olisa Agbakoba (SAN), yesterday, sought legal reform and a policy framework for a robust and competitive commercial space sector in Nigeria. 16 mins ago Mrs Fatima Waziri, Director-General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), says the agency has secured 631 convictions since its establishment. 23 mins ago China has committed to refinancing and completing the Abuja-Kano and Port-Harcourt-Maiduguri railway projects in what could be a major milestone for Nigeria at the ongoing Belt and Road Initiative Forum (BRI) in Beijing. 38 mins ago Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, yesterday, reiterated the commitment of the President Bola Tinubu administration to uphold fundamental principles of free speech and freedom of expression, saying there would be no attempt to stifle the press. 42 mins ago A former Ekiti State Governor and Chairman of Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF), Dr. Kayode Fayemi, has called on African leaders to end the “supplicant mentality” of depending on foreign aid to solve the continent’s problems. 45 mins ago Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, yesterday, disclosed that the state’s first film city project in Epe will cost $100 million and will be executed through Private Public Partnership (PPP). 46 mins ago Despite dismal electricity supply averaging a daily load offtake of 3,200 megawatts, the Federal Government and end users, in the first six months of 2023, spent about N686.18 billion on subsidy or bill payment. 1 hour ago About eight travelers have reportedly lost their lives while 52 others injured in an accident involving a trailer and a canter truck along Potiskum-Nangere road in Yobe State. 2 hours ago large number of youth in Zamfara on Tuesday protested against the recurring bandit attacks, killings, abductions and other insecurity issues in the state. 2 hours ago All is set for the Fidelity International Trade and Creative Connect (FITCC) billed for Houston, Texas, United States. Tagged FITCC Houston, the second edition of the international expo, is scheduled for October 24 to 25.
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