Nigeria is once again making strides in space science as six indigenous crop seeds from the country head to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of a multinational agricultural experiment.
The National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), in a statement by the Director of Media, Dr Felix Ale, says NASA’s Crew-11 Mission is scheduled for launch today, the 31st of July 2025, from the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida.
Nigeria’s biological payload comprises okra, cowpea, guinea corn (sorghum), amaranth, maize, and melon; staple crops selected for their nutritional value and adaptability.
Scientists will observe how these seeds respond to the unique environment of microgravity aboard the ISS.
The goal is to advance research in climate resilience, food security, and space agriculture.
He says the mission represents a historic first for Nigeria, as it marks the agency’s inaugural participation in a crewed NASA mission involving biological samples.
NASRDA’s Assistant Director of International Cooperation & Linkages and Nigeria’s project lead for the initiative, Olayinka Fagbemiro, is representing the country at the launch.
Olayinka Fagbemiro has overseen the seed selection, documentation, logistics, and institutional coordination since the project’s inception.
The seeds were delivered to the US following the signing of a formal Memorandum of Understanding between NASRDA and Jaguar Space.
Dr. Ale notes that the mission also validates years of domestic research on plant responses in simulated microgravity, carried out by NASRDA’s Department of Physical and Life Sciences.
The statement describes the move as an inclusive and culturally grounded space research initiative.
The World Seeds Payload reflects growing global collaboration in space science and highlights Nigeria’s emerging role in shaping sustainable solutions for life beyond Earth
