The Minister of State for Science, Technology and Innovation, Barr. Mohammed Abdullahi, has stated that the policies approved by the Federal Government are meant to provide solutions for the myriad of problems such as insecurity and unemployment dogging the nation.
He made this assertion during the commissioning of projects executed by the National Institute of Chemical Technology (NARICT) in Zaria.
According to him, a policy like the Presidential Executive Order No. 5 is a monumental step by the ministry which all MDAs are required to comply with; to recognise the pivotal role of science, technology and innovation in national economic development, particularly in the area of harnessing and promoting home-made goods and services.
He added that the ministry, through the application of science technology and innovation, understood its role in guiding and leading agencies under it towards making sure the country’s resources are sustained.
Abdullahi commended the efforts of the NARICT director-general, Prof. Jeffrey Barminas and the management of the institute in conceiving and actualising the enormous task for the benefit of the nation.
Lso, the minister met with the newly inaugurated board members and charged them to cooperate and synergise with the DG in ensuring that they come up with positive solutions beneficial to the agency and the country.
Earlier, the interim board chairman, Alhaji Tasiu Gano, thanked President Buhari for accepting their appointment as board members and promised to give their best in ensuring they make the country proud through their contributions.
In his remarks, Barminas thanked the minister for his commitment and immense contributions toward the development of the country.
The projects commissioned by the minister included the Upgrading and Enhancement of NARICT Library Complex (NARICT E- granatary digital library), NARICT Library Conference Hall – renovated, refurbished and upgraded to over 200-sitting capacity, rehabilitation of Minero Organic Fertiliser Plant; Fabrication and Installation of 1.25-tonne/ hour dryer for fertilizer production; Chemical, biological radiology, nuclear and explosive decontamination facilities, a pilot plant for the production of precipitated calcium carbonate for pharmaceutical and allied industries building, a model plant for the production of fuel using plants, tyres and plastics (pyrolysis) amongst others.
