…as House C’tte on NASENI Shows Support
The executive vice chairman of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Mr. Khalil Halilu has informed the House of Representatives Committee on NASENI that the agency’s branded commercial products are now market-ready and certified by the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON).
Halilu made this announcement on Thursday in Abuja during the committee’s oversight visit to NASENI’s Headquarters to review its products and projects aimed at advancing technology in sectors like defense/security, agriculture, infrastructure and others.
Included among the recently unveiled NASENI products are the NASENI laptop, android smartphone, lithium battery, led solar street light, solar irrigation system, electric bicycle and electric Keke (passenger and cargo types). During the visit, the EVC also presented two newly branded NASENI electric vehicles (EV) to the lawmakers.
Halilu emphasised that NASENI has been instrumental in propelling Nigeria’s technological progress and industrialisation. “In recent months, we have implemented various initiatives to shift our focus from research-based activities to commercialising our products and services.”
He highlighted the importance of this transformation in enhancing their contribution to the national economy and achieving sustainable development goals, noting that 85 per cent of NASENI projects involve counterpart funding. “We operate based on our 3C’s principle – collaboration, creation, and commercialisation, partnering with the private sector to ensure that we fulfill our mandate.”
Halilu mentioned that around 35 NASENI products under his leadership are market-ready. “We are prepared for the Nigerian market and seek the lawmakers’ support as our initial advocates through patronage and beyond. We are also establishing showrooms in all 36 states for product marketing. Every endeavor we undertake includes a commercial strategy. Our goal is not just to produce goods but to reach the end-users,” he added.
Enumerating NASENI’s accomplishments, the EVC/CEO cited innovation and research development, product commercialisation, renewable energy projects and capacity-building. He appealed to the lawmakers to continue supporting NASENI in delivering both capital and consumer goods, as well as generating employment opportunities for Nigerian youth.
In his address, the chairman of the House Committee on NASENI, Hon. Otunba Abimbola Ajilesoro explained that the oversight visit aimed to engage with the agency on technological advancements in various sectors like defense/security, agriculture and infrastructure, which would help conserve foreign exchange and positively impact the economy.
According to the agency’s director of information, Olusegun Ayeoyenikan the committee has been monitoring NASENI’s activities closely. “We have heard about NASENI branded products, such as NASENI laptops, android smartphones, lithium batteries, LED solar street lights, etc. It was deemed necessary for the committee to witness these products and technologies firsthand, which are expected to boost Nigeria’s economy.”
Regarding NASENI development institutes’ responsibilities, he assured the committee’s support in areas like appropriation and legislative framework to fortify the Establishment Act for NASENI’s effective performance.
While committing to providing ongoing support, the committee emphasized the need for accountability and efficient use of resources in implementing the agency’s programmes aligned with its mission and vision. This approach aims to foster sustainable technological progress, positioning Nigeria as an industrial leader globally.
