ABUJA, Nigeria – A leading space expert urges Nigeria to prioritise science and technology investment following the breakthrough Artemis II mission.
Babatunde Rabiu, research director at the National Space Research and Development Agency, says the mission reflects years of sustained research and planning.
“The mission is a breakthrough… it shows what long-term investment in research can achieve,” he says.
The NASA programme aims to advance human spaceflight beyond low Earth orbit and prepare for future Moon and Mars exploration.
Rabiu notes that the success builds on earlier tests, including Artemis I, underscoring the value of patience, funding and continuity.
“It should inspire us… we can rise beyond our current level if we take science seriously,” he adds.
He calls on African nations to strengthen research systems and position themselves in global scientific innovation.
Analysts say increased investment in science could drive economic growth, innovation and global competitiveness.
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