Nigeria’s anti-graft war is set to receive a technological boost as the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have entered a strategic partnership to deploy satellite and geospatial technologies against crime, particularly illegal mining.
The collaboration which was formalised in Abuja aimed at strengthening investigations, asset tracking and fraud risk assessment through inter-agency cooperation.
Director-General of NASRDA, Dr Matthew Adepoju, said the agreement marked a milestone in enhancing accountability and enforcing compliance within Nigeria’s space and economic sectors.
He stated that unlawful mining has become a major source of insecurity and economic sabotage, and that satellite assets and mapping data are occasionally exploited by criminal organisations.
Adepoju stated that NASRDA would use advanced space technology, geospatial intelligence, and spectrum management tools to assist the EFCC in its activities, emphasising the importance of regulating the space ecosystem for national security.
He stated that the execution of the MoU would begin immediately.
Mr Ola Olukoyede, chairman of the EFCC, highlighted the relationship as a practical example of how government agencies may collaborate to promote governance and service delivery.
He stated that the agreement clearly described the responsibilities of both institutions and would be monitored by a dedicated staff.
According to Olukoyede, NASRDA's technology will help the EFCC expand its investigative reach, particularly in difficult terrains associated with illegal mining activities.
He explained that geolocation tools would improve asset recovery and management by enabling public tracking of forfeited assets across the country.
The alliance is designed to increase transparency, reduce economic sabotage, and strengthen Nigeria's ability to combat complex crimes using technology-driven information.
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