Against Funding Odds, Adepoju Leads NASRDA to Global Excellence

Dr. Felix Babatunde Ale

As the curtain draws on the year 2025, it is fitting to pause, reflect, and celebrate the remarkable journey of the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA).

Despite challenges occasioned by the non-release of funds for capital projects this year, NASRDA has emerged with a success story worth telling—thanks to the ingenuity, resilience, and sterling leadership of its Director-General, Dr. Matthew Olumide Adepoju.

Philosophers remind us that “adversity introduces a man to himself” (Albert Einstein). Leadership is best tested not in times of ease, but in moments of trial. In the face of daunting challenges, Adepoju remained undeterred, steadfastly committed to his three-point agenda as a catalyst for transformation. His vision has not only sustained the Agency but has positioned NASRDA as a beacon of scientific excellence both nationally and internationally.

By his inspiring performance thus far, it is clear that Adepoju is indeed the right man for NASRDA at this point in time. His leadership is defined not only by vision and resilience, but also by an uncommon level of patriotism.

He has consistently demonstrated loyalty to the Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, under whose supervision NASRDA operates, and to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Chairman of the Space Council. His respect for and collaboration with leaders across the space sector, both nationally and continentally, further underscore his commitment to collective progress.

In both words and actions, Adepoju has vowed that no stone will be left unturned in transforming the dreams of the founding fathers of NASRDA into living realities. This pledge is not mere rhetoric; it is anchored in his daily pursuit of excellence and his determination to position NASRDA as a global player in space science and technology.

His patriotism is evident in the deliberate alignment of the Agency’s programmes with national priorities, ensuring that every stride in space research contributes meaningfully to Nigeria’s development agenda.

His loyalty to leadership is not blind allegiance, but a conscious recognition that unity of purpose between institutions and government is the bedrock of sustainable progress. In this regard, Adepoju exemplifies the wisdom of John F. Kennedy, who once said, “Ask not what your country can do for you ask what you can do for your country.”

His stewardship reflects that philosophy, as he continues to give his utmost to NASRDA and to Nigeria. Indeed, the Agency is fortunate to have a helmsman whose patriotism, loyalty, and determination are matched by competence and vision.

Much has already been written by my brilliant colleagues in the Media and Corporate Communication Department on the activities and inspiring performance of Adepoju. Their words have illuminated his vision and documented his achievements with admirable clarity. Yet, as our tradition wisely teaches, “when the big masquerade enters the arena, it must dance itself, so that the people may see the true steps.”

At a time like this, the responsibility falls on me, as the chief communicator of NASRDA, to step forward and tell the story more fully, not out of sentiment, but in the fearless media spirit of “publish and be damned.”

This is necessary to deepen public understanding and appreciation of the sterling leadership qualities of Adepoju, whose performance continues to redefine the trajectory of NASRDA.

My assessment of Adepoju’s leadership is not born of sentiment arising from my role as NASRDA’s spokesperson, but of conviction grounded in professional experience and the power of the pen. As a prolific writer and fearless journalist, I have served as Press Attaché to two Military Governors, Colonel Ahmed Usman and Navy Captain Anthony Ibe Onyearugbulem and as Chief Press Secretary to a democratically elected Governor, Chief Adebayo Adefarati.

Since 2006, I have also had the privilege of serving as NASRDA’s spokesperson under successive chief executives.
This wealth of experience provides me with a fair mirror of comparison. In that mirror, Adepoju shines as a star, a man of class and a leader deeply committed to positively impacting the lives of NASRDA’s workforce. His unwavering pursuit of improved welfare packages and his determination to leave NASRDA better than he met it are hallmarks of true leadership.

We must also recall with nostalgia one of the defining highlights of the year: NASRDA’s emergence as the Best Federal MDA in Digital Governance at the Nigerian GovTech Public Service Awards.

At the same ceremony, held at the State House Banquet Hall, Abuja, the Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR) also presented Adepoju with a Merit Award of Excellence for his sterling leadership and enviable track record of achievements.

These awards speak volumes about the prevailing atmosphere within NASRDA. They are not mere plaques or ceremonial recognitions; they are symbolic affirmations of the commendable efforts of the present leadership.

They testify to the fact that under Adepoju’s stewardship, NASRDA has not only sustained its relevance but has also carved out a reputation as a forward-looking institution committed to digital governance, transparency, and innovation.

Indeed, such honours mirror the transformation taking place within the Agency. They remind us that excellence is never accidental; it is the product of vision, hard work, and unwavering commitment. As Aristotle once said, “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” Under Adepoju, excellence has become a habit at NASRDA.

The Agency is indeed fortunate to have Adepoju at the helm at this critical juncture. Already, the story of NASRDA is being rewritten positively under his stewardship. Yet leadership thrives on collective effort. I therefore commend the entire management team, Directors of centres, laboratories, and departments, for their invaluable support to the Director-General. Together, you have ensured that NASRDA’s vision continues to advance.

As we step into the new year, let us renew our collective commitment to support the Director-General for even greater performance. The Bible reminds us in Ecclesiastes 4:9 that “two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labour.” The Qur’an similarly enjoins unity in Surah Al-Imran 3:103: “And hold firmly to the rope of Allah all together and do not become divided.”

These timeless injunctions affirm that unity of purpose and collective support for leadership are indispensable for success in any strategic organisation such as NASRDA.
Let us therefore march into 2026 with renewed dedication, strengthened unity, and unwavering faith in the future of NASRDA. Together, we shall continue to soar beyond challenges and into new frontiers of excellence.

Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year to all.