By Giwa SHILE
The Governor-General of Canada, Ms Julie Payette, is expected to inspect the National Space Museum of National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) during her visit to Nigeria.
NASRDA Head of Media and Corporate Communications, Dr Felix Ale, , made this known in a statement on Thursday in Abuja.
Ale said that the Payette, who would be visiting Nigeria on Oct. 29, would also make a personal donation of space-related items to the National Space Museum, in addition to inspecting other facilities in the space agency.
“During the visit, the Governor General of Canada will have a round table discussion with senior NASRDA officials on their accomplishments and Nigeria’s Space Science and Technology endeavours.
“The Governor-General of Canada who is an experienced Canadian astronaut is also expected to give a presentation to about 1000 primary school pupils and secondary school students at the NASRDA Conference Centre.
“The Governor-General of Canada will inspect some of NASRDA’s facilities and make a personal donation of space-related items to the National Space Museum, which was recently completed by President Muhammadu Buhari led administration.
“Payette is well respected in the community of space practice across the globe, particularly for her works and efforts in developing policies to promote science and technology.
“She has received many awards including 28 honorary doctorates in profound appreciation of her unique efforts and contributions.
“She is an Extraordinary Officer of the order of Canada and a Knight of the Order of National du Quebec,“ he said.
Ale said the agency was convinced that the visit of Payette was timely and historic; pointing out that it would be the first visit of a foreign head of state to Nigeria’s Space Agency.
Before assuming office as Canada’s Head of State in October, 2017, Payette worked as a senior Canadian astronaut and flew on two missions to space.
Payette was the first Canadian female astronaut on the International Space Station.
She has also served many years as Capsule Communicator at NASA’s mission control Centre in Houston Texas, and was Chief Astronaut for the Canadian Space Agency.
Payette first visit the African University of Science and Technology University (AUST) as part her itinerary.
