Investing in scientific research and development has been touted as being crucial for the economic growth of Nigeria.
This was revealed by the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji.
Nnaji, who was speaking during a courtesy visit by the European Union (EU) Ambassador to Nigeria, Her Excellency Samuela Isopi, emphasised Nigeria’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for investment in this sector to advance the nation’s economy.
Also, he expressed the ministry’s willingness to focus on building capacity, enhancing research infrastructure and fostering collaborations with European research institutions by “leveraging our strengths in renewable energy, biotechnology and space research, among others.”
The minister highlighted innovation and research as crucial to progress and stated that the ministry is prepared to establish joint centers, particularly in renewable energy and climate-smart agriculture, to leverage the expertise and resources of European partners.
In a statement by the ministry’s deputy director of the press and public relations unit, Mr. Atuora Obed, Nnaji mentioned that the upcoming EU Innovation Forum represents a significant milestone in their collaborations. He expressed that the forum will serve as a platform for Nigerian and European innovators, entrepreneurs and policymakers to exchange ideas and explore synergies for the socioeconomic advancement of the country.
The permanent secretary at the ministry, Mrs. Esuabana Nko Asanye also appealed to the ambassador for assistance in training research and scientific officers of the ministry to enhance their capacity and transform them into world-class scientific officers.
Isopi emphasised the purpose of her collaboration with the ministry in the innovation, science and technology sector, aiming to maintain a cordial relationship that will boost research and development in the country.
