The Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology (FMIST) has inaugurated the Implementation Committee for the memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed with the Association of Computer Village Merchants of Nigeria (ACOVIMN).
The event, held in Abuja, marks a strategic step toward advancing ICT, research and development, and youth skills acquisition to drive national economic growth.
Chairing the event, the national coordinator of the Strategy Implementation Task Office for Presidential Executive Order No. 5, Engr. Ibiam Oguejiofo introduced members of the committee. President of ACOVIMN, Anthony Nwakeze was named vice -chairman. Dr. Patricks Oghuma was appointed secretary, with other members including the special adviser to the minister, Dr. Robert Ngwu; Agoro Olayiwola, Fidelis Ezeugwu, Henry Igbo, Ngozi Agbapuonwu, Dr. Christpeace Ezebuiro and Collins Agwu as assistant secretary.
The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Geoffrey Nnaji underscored the committee’s importance, stating it reflects the Federal Government’s commitment under the ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda to connect policy with grassroots innovation. “This partnership bridges the gap between policy and grassroots technology entrepreneurs, fostering inclusive growth, job creation and wealth generation,” he said.
The MoU outlines strategic objectives, including the establishment of ICT and skills acquisition centres in Nigeria’s geopolitical zones, targeted particularly at youths and women; promotion of local technology solutions and support for tech entrepreneurship in line with the Nigeria First Policy and Executive Order 5.
The minister tasked committee members with delivering practical outcomes and emphasized the ministry’s support for timely execution. He called for regular reporting to guide policymaking and ensure alignment with national development goals.
Concluding the ceremony, Nnaji officially inaugurated the committee, charging them to pursue the vision with diligence. “I congratulate the members and declare this committee duly inaugurated,” he said.
The collaboration is expected to transform Nigeria into a leading hub for technological innovation and economic empowerment in Africa.
