The Minister of State for Science, Technology and Innovation, Chief Henry Ikoh has restated the Federal Government’s commitment to continue to ensure that women and children develop a keen interest in science, technology and innovation (STI)-based knowledge development to be deployed for the nation’s benefit.
He said this during the dialogue between the government and stakeholders in the science technology and innovation ecosystem in the northeastern part of the country, on the establishment and implementation of the technology and innovation centres for global competitiveness and productivity today (November 29, 2022) in Bauchi State.
The minister revealed that, in line with Presidential Executive Order No.5, STI Policy 2022 and the Abuja Declaration of FARI, researchers, inventors and innovators will be protected with the appropriate legal framework – such as the issuance of patents and other intellectual property rights.
Ikoh further assured that the Federal Government will create a conducive and enabling environment for work, reward scientists and researchers for successful commercialisation of research and innovation efforts and attract women and children into research and Innovation. Adding that this will improve the overall socio-economic fortunes of the country.
“We shall work tirelessly to remove all obstacles, close all gaps to encourage cooperation and collaboration among R&D institutions and OPS and ensure that there is a cordial relationship among critical stakeholders within the STI ecosystem in the country. This will help reduce the cost of production, guarantee stability in the supply chain, stabilise foreign exchange crises and provide a solid foundation for irreversible industrialisation that is inclusive and sustainable for national development, employment generation and creation of commonwealth for the good of all Nigerians,” he said.
Earlier in his remarks, the executive governor of Bauchi State, Sen. Bala Mohammed said, when implemented fully, Executive Order No.5 will greatly reduce the craving for imported goods and positively affect the socio-economic development and growth of the country.
Represented by his deputy, Sen. Baba Tela, Mohammed noted that the implementation of Executive Order NO.5 will ensure 100 million direct and indirect jobs in the country and, most importantly, boost indigenous technology development in the country.
In his remarks, the national coordinator. Strategy Implementation Task Office for Presidential Executive Order No.5 (SITOPEO), Engr. Ibiam Oguejiofor enjoined the participants to contribute positively to the dialogue.
A statement by the ministry’s deputy director, press and public relations signed by Josephine Ademu added that changing the narratives of the Nigerian economy from one known for consumption to production-based is a task that must be achieved collectively.
