An aerospace engineer, Nurudeen Adeyemi Balogun, has called on the Federal Government to prioritise the development of indigenous aerospace technology as part of the country’s strategy to fight banditry and insurgency.
Balogun, a member of the Board of Trustees of TETFund (North Central), made the appeal while speaking with journalists at the Media Parliament of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kwara State Council, in Ilorin.
The event focused on “Nigeria’s Aerospace Potential: Innovation, Infrastructure and Indigenous Capacity.”
According to him, Nigeria cannot be regarded as truly independent without establishing a strong aerospace industry capable of supporting both civilian and military needs.
“Nigeria needs to be serious with aerospace technology and industry.
“We should have our own military satellites to tackle insecurity.
“We already have qualified military personnel. What is needed is commitment and resilience.
“Rome was not built in a day, but with political will, Nigeria can build a strong aerospace sector,” he stated.
Balogun, who noted that several countries with similar capabilities have achieved significant breakthroughs, stressed that Nigeria must not continue to rely heavily on foreign technology.
Turning to the aviation sector, he identified outdated equipment as a major challenge affecting safety and efficiency at Nigerian airports.
“We don’t lack qualified pilots or ground staff; what we lack are modern facilities.
“Most of our aircraft are ageing and poorly maintained.
“That is why you see delays due to sudden engine issues, or flights being grounded during harmattan because of inadequate landing equipment,” he explained.
He also underscored the importance of harnessing the talents of graduates from Nigeria’s aerospace universities, noting that their skills could help reduce dependence on foreign experts while strengthening national security.
Balogun, concluded by urging the government to demonstrate the political will needed to modernise the aviation industry and build a sustainable aerospace future for Nigeria.(vitalnewsngr.com)
