NASRDA SPOKESPERSON, DR FELIX ALE VISITS INDIA DEPUTY HIGH COMMISSIONER TO STRENGTHEN SPACE COLLABORATION AND PROMOTE ASEIC-2026
The Director of Media and Corporate Communication of the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), Dr Felix Ale has paid a courtesy visit to the Deputy High Commissioner of the India Embassy in Nigeria, Mrs. Vartika Rawat,where he spoke extensively on the benefits of Space Science and Technology to every nation across the globe.
Dr Ale described space science and as a basic instrument for growth and development,stressing that no country can afford to ignore its transformative potential in driving innovation,policy,and socio-economic advancement.
He highlighted the existing relationship between the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) and NASRDA,noting that the collaboration has strengthened and consolidated the bilateral ties between India and Nigeria over the years.
Dr Ale explained that beyond his role as spokesperson of NASRDA, he was also at the India Commission in his capacity as Chairman of the Organizing Committee of the forthcoming African Space Economy, Innovation and Communication Conference (ASEIC-2026),scheduled to hold between 24-27 November 2026 in Abuja.
The NASRDA Spokesperson briefed the Deputy High Commissioner on the concept of ASEIC-2026, themed “Harnessing Space Economy, Driving innovation, Connecting Africa’s Future “
According to him, the conference which will be declared open by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu who is also Chairman of Nigeria Space Council is designed as a high-level policy, investment, and communication forum rather than a traditional scientific gathering.
Dr Ale explained that the event will integrate ministerial dialogue, technical presentations,strategy workshops,investment panels,and collaborative breakout sessions to foster practical solutions that bridge the gap between research, innovation,policy, and commercial deployment.
He further explained that the conference will be attended by participants across the globe as well as Directors General and Chief Executives of Space Agencies in Africa,including the President of the African Space Agency,and the event is structured to generate actionable outputs that support national and continental decision-making while strengthening regional collaboration and attracting both domestic and international investment.
Dr Ale called for the active participation of the India Embassy, particularly in extending invitations to numerous space-related investors in India to attend and contribute to the success of the conference.
He reaffirmed NASRDA’s commitment to strengthening international partnerships and ensuring that Africa’s space economy becomes a driver of innovation, investment, and sustainable development.
Responding, the Deputy High Commissioner Vartika Rawat expressed appreciation to Dr Ale and his team for the visit,describing the idea and concept of the conference as laudable and right step in the right direction.
She commended the leadership of NASRDA under Professor Matthew Adepoju for its success story, saying by its achievements,the space Agency has no doubt justified its leadership position in the Space sector in Africa.
Mrs Rawat assured that the India Commission will be part of the conference and pledged continued support for Nigeria’s space initiatives.
Other members of the NASRDA delegation included Director of International Cooperation and Linkages, Dr Rakiya Babamaji, Director of Policy,Planning and Research,Dr Henry Akoma among others.
