Nigeria has recorded a major diplomatic and scientific milestone as Babatunde Rabiu, a research director at the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), has been appointed Second Vice-Chairman and Rapporteur of the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (UN-COPUOS).
The appointment was confirmed in Abuja on Monday by Olayode Abdurasaq, Senior Special Assistant to NASRDA’s Director-General, Matthew Adepoju, who described the development as a significant boost for Nigeria’s presence in global space governance.
Rabiu, a renowned space physicist, was selected during the 69th session of the UN-COPUOS held in Vienna, Austria, from June 10 to 19, where member states deliberated on international cooperation in outer space activities.
Speaking on his appointment, Rabiu said the new role would strengthen Nigeria’s access to international space partnerships and deepen its participation in global space development initiatives.
He noted that the position places Nigeria in a strategic position to benefit from programmes coordinated by the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA), which provides policy direction for global space collaboration.
“Nigeria stands to gain significantly from activities under the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs. This appointment strengthens our ability to tap into international cooperation mechanisms within the space sector,” Rabiu said.
He added that the recognition reflected global confidence in the capacity of Nigerian scientists and underscored NASRDA’s growing influence within Africa’s space research ecosystem.
“This development shows that Nigerian scientists are being recognised globally for their competence and contributions. It is also an encouragement for young researchers to remain committed and focused,” he added.
Congratulating Rabiu, NASRDA Director-General Matthew Adepoju described the appointment as another achievement for Nigeria’s space agency and evidence of the country’s consistent leadership role in international space affairs.
Adepoju praised Rabiu’s long-standing contributions to space science and technology, noting that Nigeria has continued to play active leadership roles within the UN-COPUOS framework.
He recalled that Nigeria’s leadership record in the committee includes the tenure of the late Adigun Abiodun, who served as Chairman of UN-COPUOS between 2004 and 2006.
He also referenced Dr Francis Chizea, another NASRDA director, who served as Vice-Chairman of the committee from 2019 to 2021, describing the latest appointment as a continuation of that legacy.
Adepoju stressed that Nigeria’s involvement in UN space governance goes beyond participation, adding that the country has consistently contributed to shaping global discussions on peaceful space exploration and utilisation.
UN-COPUOS remains the leading international platform for coordinating peaceful uses of outer space, where member states exchange information on space programmes, policies and emerging technologies.
