A new partnership aimed at strengthening security, research and technological innovation is taking shape in Delta State, as the Defence Space School, Orogun, and Federal Polytechnic Orogun formalised plans for deeper institutional collaboration.
The move followed a high-level courtesy visit on Wednesday by a delegation from the Defence Space School to the management of the Polytechnic — a development observers say could redefine academic-military synergy in the region.
The delegation, led by the Acting Coordinator of the Defence Space School, Commodore K.O. Olarewanju, was received by the Rector of the Polytechnic, Prof. Duke Okoro, alongside principal officers.
During the meeting, Olarewanju conveyed greetings from the Chief of Defence Space Administration, Major General P.O. Olodibia, and acknowledged the cordial relationship between both institutions since the School’s establishment in Orogun.
Tracing the evolution of Nigeria’s defence space framework, the Acting Coordinator explained that the Nigerian Space Policy and Programmes (NSPP), approved in 2001, laid the groundwork for a Defence Space Command to handle security-related components of the nation’s space agenda.
He noted that the Defence Space Administration (DSA), established in 2014 and backed by an Act of the National Assembly in 2017, was designed to harness space products and services to support the Armed Forces and other security agencies.
“Space is no longer a luxury; it is a force multiplier,” Olarewanju stated. “Beyond the traditional theatres of operation — land, sea and air — the world has expanded to cyberspace and outer space. To have a global view and secure national interests, we must operate beyond conventional boundaries.”
He added that the Defence Space School was created as a professional institution to build capacity in space science, technology development and management for defence operations, in line with global best practices and United Nations provisions on the peaceful uses of outer space.
Olarewanju said the visit was aimed at reinforcing goodwill and expanding areas of cooperation.
“We are here to appreciate the Rector for his kind gesture in providing accommodation to some of our pioneer staff. We seek greater synergy — in research collaboration, joint workshops and seminars, cross-training of lecturers, and mutual support in security,” he said.
He assured the Polytechnic of the School’s readiness to enhance campus security and explore other mutually beneficial partnerships.
Responding, Prof. Duke Okoro described the visit as both historic and strategic, noting that the Polytechnic shares the same perimeter fence with the Defence Space School.
“We must appreciate the privilege of having a military formation of this calibre in Orogun,” Okoro said. “Their presence is not only symbolic; it is reassuring. It sends a strong message that social vices such as cultism, vandalism and theft will no longer have a foothold around our institution.”
He recalled previous incidents of vandalism and theft but expressed optimism about improved security going forward.
“With the Defence Space School as our neighbour, we believe the narrative will change permanently. Security is fundamental to learning, and we are committed to providing a safe and enabling environment for our students and staff,” he stated.
Highlighting the Polytechnic’s NBTE-approved programmes in Engineering and the Sciences, Okoro stressed the need for cross-sector collaboration.
“Administration must link up with technology,” he declared. “The Defence Space School represents cutting-edge technology. We cannot operate in silos. Our School of Business must collaborate with technology-driven institutions like this. That is how institutions grow relevance.”
He also revealed ongoing efforts to deploy solar energy solutions and introduce renewable energy programmes in line with global sustainability trends.
“We are setting up a think-tank to identify programmes of collaborative interest. With the pool of qualified PhD holders and seasoned professionals in the Polytechnic, there is enormous intellectual capital to tap into through mutually beneficial arrangements,” Okoro added.
The Polytechnic’s Registrar, Mrs. Christine Aluyi, described the engagement as “timely and forward-looking.”
“This engagement opens doors for structured collaboration in staff development, policy support and shared expertise. It reflects a shared commitment to national development,” she said.
Similarly, the Polytechnic Librarian, Prof. Achugbue I. Edwin, underscored the importance of joint research initiatives.
“Research thrives on collaboration,” Prof. Edwin noted. “With space science, cybersecurity and satellite technologies becoming central to national development, our libraries and research units can build resource-sharing frameworks, joint publications and digital knowledge platforms that will benefit both institutions.”
The visit signals a deliberate effort to integrate academic innovation with defence technology in Delta State, positioning Orogun as an emerging hub for advanced technological education and strategic research.
With both institutions pledging sustained engagement, stakeholders believe the alliance could deliver transformative outcomes — from enhanced campus security and cutting-edge research to capacity-building initiatives aligned with Nigeria’s broader ambitions in space science and national development.
