Nigeria’s space ambitions took a major leap forward as the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), through its Centre for Space Transport and Propulsion (CSTP), successfully launched a test flight rocket codenamed CSTP-R5/25 at the Epe lagoon in Lagos State.
The rocket, fully designed and built by CSTP engineers, demonstrated the country’s growing capacity in solid propellant technology and marked a historic milestone in indigenous rocketry development.
The Director of CSTP, Engr. (Dr.) Olusegun Sholiyi, said the breakthrough was possible due to the visionary leadership of NASRDA’s Director General, Dr. Matthew Adepoju. He explained that the DG remotely ignited the rocket from the United States, an action he described as proof of “the global reach of Nigeria’s advancing technology.”
CSTP also introduced an innovation by designing a customized boat to act as a launch pad, which made the operation smooth and successful. This approach was praised as an important step in improving Nigeria’s space technology.
Following this achievement, NASRDA confirmed that preparations are already in place for a larger rocket launch from the Atlantic Ocean.
The planned launch is expected to further boost Nigeria’s competitiveness in global space research, solid propellant technology, and rocket engineering.
Top officials, including Directors Dr. Abayomi Alaga and Dr. Felix Ale, hailed the successful launch as a historic stride for the country. They described it as a moment that strengthens NASRDA’s position as a beacon of innovation, national pride, and scientific excellence.