By Ninma Yacim
The Director General and Chief Executive of the National Space Research and Development Agency, NASRDA, Dr. Matthew Adepoju, has stated that space technology is a strategic tool combating emergencies and proper disaster management.
He made the statement during the signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Space Agency and the Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) at NASRDA’s headquarters in Abuja.
Dr. Adepoju, lauded the Director General of FEMA for being proactive in the collaboration between both Agencies on the use of satellite imageries and its applications for emergency assessment and management of disasters in the Federal Capital Territory.
The NASRDA Boss said the Space Agency will
provide information and data on satellite imageries, space applications and capacity development on terms and conditions set
out in the MOU.
Dr. Adepoju said NASRDA will support FEMA with space technology for disaster management, focusing on prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery activities.
He however emphasized the need for swift implementation of MOU by saying, it is an essential service to the nation.
In his remarks, the Director General, Emergency Management Agency of the Federal Capital Territory, (FEMA), Alhaji Abdulrahman Mohammed appreciated the Dr. Adepoju for the warm reception accorded to him and his team.
He expressed his delight over the swift processing of the proposed collaboration saying that NASRDA is an Agency with so much to offer both FEMA and other Agencies.
Mohammed assured that his Agency will do all it takes to live up to their own end of the bargain for the mutual benefit of both agencies and Nigeria.
