President Bola Tinubu has pledged to bolster and champion innovation, science and technology (STI) for contemporary socio-economic development, marking a pivotal stride towards national growth.
President Tinubu, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume made this declaration at the 8th Technology and Innovation Expo 2024 in Abuja, themed “STI: Solution to National Economic Challenges.” Recognising the undeniable role of innovation stemming from science and technology as the fulcrum of economic growth, Tinubu emphasised its centrality in achieving the country’s socio-economic goals.
He assured that his administration views STI as a paramount driver for socio-economic advancement, intending to lift the population out of poverty and quell restiveness. Tinubu underscored the increased budgetary allocation to the sector as evidence of the government’s commitment to harnessing its job-creating potential.
The president announced plans to fortify the technology and innovation centres across the country’s six geopolitical zones. These centres are envisioned as hubs to unite stakeholders in the science, technology and innovation ecosystem, charting the course for the effective use of mineral and human resources on a global scale.
Highlighting international collaboration, Tinubu revealed that Nigeria has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Republic of Cuba. This collaboration spans biotechnology, scientific investigation and innovation, technological development, human resources development, specialist exchange in science and technology and technology transfer for development areas.
Underscoring the pivotal role of STI, Tinubu stressed that it would continue to receive support, aligning with the provisions of Presidential Executive Order No. 5 (2018). He urged stakeholders and the private sector to rally behind this initiative, emphasizing the government’s commitment to providing an enabling environment for the establishment of national centres for training in welding and welding-related fields.
Addressing funding concerns, Tinubu directed the federal ministries of finance and national budget and economic planning to allocate the required funds for the initiation of these centres. The President also recalled the government’s commitment to allocating 0.5 per cent of the GDP to research and development (R&D) for accelerated development.
Congratulating the winners of the 774 Young Nigerian Scientists Presidential Award (774-YONSPA), Tinubu announced full scholarships for the top three candidates in the competition, up to the doctoral level in any science-related discipline.
Expressing gratitude for the innovations showcased at the Expo, Tinubu assured researchers, inventors, and innovators of government support for commercialising their products. The president congratulated all participants for their outstanding contributions to the national economic landscape.
Imo State governor, Hope Uzodimma commended the Ministry of STI, highlighting its role in ensuring sustainable freedom. He acknowledged the global shift toward embracing science and technology, emphasising the need for Nigeria to align with the new world order.
Uzodimma stressed that agriculture, climate change and global food security would greatly benefit from the innovative application of science and technology. He urged the Ministry of STI to initiate programmes that catch the interest of young minds, starting from early education through tertiary institutions.
Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji emphasised that STI is the key to unlocking sustainable prosperity. He underscored the pivotal role of the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology in contributing to the growth of all sectors of the economy.
The minister highlighted the government’s commitment to allocating 0.5 per cent of the nation’s GDP to R&D, aligning seamlessly with the Expo’s theme. This financial commitment demonstrates a strategic move towards realising sustainable economic growth through advancements in STI. Nnaji emphasised the government’s dedication to investing in the foundations of long-term economic development.
The Technology and Innovation Expo 2024 signifies a resolute push towards leveraging science, technology and innovation to address Nigeria’s economic challenges and foster national growth. The renewed commitment from the Federal Government reinforces the crucial role of STI in shaping a resilient and prosperous future for the nation.
