One major problem in Africa in general is to convince governments and agencies that astronomy is relevant to Africa. Attention has been focussed on technology transfer, neglecting science and research. This attitude encourages the continued dependence on industrialized countries.

In Nigeria there has been some success in projecting the idea that Space Science does not just mean remote sensing, but that basic space science, i.e. astronomy and astrophysics, cosmology, planetary science etc. is important and necessary. Evidence of this is that Nigeria’s expert committee on space policy recommended that one of three proposed National Centres should be for basic space science, laying emphasis on fundamental physics, astronomy and astrophysics, solarterrestrial interactions and their influence on climate, planetary and atmospheric studies. In addition, the Government of Nigeria hosted the Third UN/ESA Workshop on Basic Space Science in October, 1993.