The Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation (STI), Sen. Adeleke Mamora has described the 2023 Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) exposition proof that the sector can drive Nigeria’s economic growth and diversification.
Speaking during the closing ceremony of the expo themed “Actualising effective diversification of the Nigerian economy through science, technology and innovation” at the weekend in Abuja, the minister said the ministry and its stakeholders are proud of all they have accomplished thus far.
Giving his closing remarks, Mamora highlighted the major highlights of the expo including the technical sessions/special days on research and development commercialisation, which provided a platform for researchers, innovators and entrepreneurs to showcase their work and connect with potential investors and partners.
He identified the investors/researchers forum as another important aspect of the expo, as it provided an opportunity for investors and researchers to connect and explore potential investment opportunities in Nigeria.
Other activities during the expo included the exhibition of the most innovative inventions and ideas from inventors and innovators from across the country.
“Your contributions have been invaluable and we are proud to showcase the talents and capabilities of our nation’s brightest minds. We encourage you to continue to pursue your ideas and innovations, as they are the driving force behind the diversification of our economy.
“We are truly impressed by the level of creativity and ingenuity on display and we are committed to supporting these individuals as they come to market their ideas. We believe that supporting young entrepreneurs and inventors is key to diversifying the Nigerian economy and creating new opportunities for our people.”
Furthermore, the minister stated that the inclusion of government, private sectors, academia and research institutions provided a platform for all the stakeholders to come together and discuss ways to support innovation and entrepreneurship in the country.
He pointed out that it was great to see the collaboration between these groups, adding the ministry looks forward to seeing the positive results that will come out of these discussions.
“In light of all the lessons learned, the outcomes of the expo and the contributions of all the stakeholders, we encourage the organised private sector (OPS) to take advantage of the research results and prototypes showcased at this expo, to create jobs for our people, reduce poverty and crime in the country as well as create wealth for both themselves and the nation,” he added.
Earlier in her remarks, the ministry’s permanent secretary, Mrs. Monilola Udoh said the week-long expo was geared towards showcasing new products and developments in science and technology.
Udoh stated that the ministry was poised to collaborate with and complement efforts at all levels to promote innovative advances in technology and industrialisation of Nigeria.
“l wish to reiterate further that these initiatives are aimed at creating the right atmosphere for industrial growth; promoting the synergy and collaboration between the industry and academia and at the same time, strengthening the innovative skills of researchers, backed with other policy measures that encourage the patronage of local content such as leather and leather products, renewable energy, import substitution on chemicals, among others.
“At this point, we can boldly state that the STI Expo has provided the needed impetus for entrepreneurship development and innovation in the Nigerian STI ecosystem,” she said.
Highlights of the events were the presentation of awards and prizes to the best three in each category of exhibitions from research institutions, tertiary institutions, states ministry categories, technology entrepreneur’s categories and the junior engineers technicians and scientists (JETS).
