The Federal Government has urged the Defence Space Administration (DSA) to maintain and strengthen its contributions to military operations through advanced space-based intelligence and technology.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Mr Richard Pheelangwah, gave the charge during a familiarisation visit to the agency’s headquarters in Abuja.
In a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja by Queenet Iheoma-Hart on behalf of the Director of Press and Public Relations, Ministry of Defence, he emphasised the strategic importance of the DSA to national security operations.
Pheelangwah noted that the agency plays a vital role in supporting the Armed Forces with geo-spatial intelligence, satellite imagery, and real-time data essential for planning and executing military missions.
He said its contributions have significantly improved surveillance, reconnaissance, and situational awareness, resulting in more precise and coordinated operations across different security environments.
He added that modern security challenges require the continuous adoption of advanced technological solutions, with the DSA positioned as a key player in this regard.
The Permanent Secretary called for stronger collaboration between the agency and other security and intelligence bodies to improve operational efficiency.
He also assured that the ministry would continue to support the DSA in addressing challenges related to funding, infrastructure, and capacity development.
Earlier, the Chief of Defence Space Administration, Maj.-Gen. Phillip Ilodibia, said the agency remained committed to providing actionable intelligence to support ongoing military operations.
He explained that the DSA’s expertise in geo-spatial intelligence, data fusion, and cyber operations had been instrumental in enhancing security responses and mission success.
Ilodibia also highlighted challenges such as limited accommodation and funding constraints, while calling for greater inclusion in national security decision-making processes.
The visit included an inspection of key facilities such as the Geo-spatial Intelligence Centre, Cyber Centre, and Data Fusion Laboratory.