The National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP) has revealed that it is in the process of establishing a tripartite intergovernmental partnership with the Republic of Romania and the Swedish government to promote technology development in Nigeria.
During a courtesy visit to the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, led by the acting director-general of NOTAP, Dr. Idoreyin Imiyoho, she shared that NOTAP’s mission extends beyond regulating the inflow of foreign technology into the country. It also involves nurturing the growth of locally motivated technologies.
Imiyoho stressed the fact that over 90 per cent of the technologies utilized in various sectors of Nigeria’s economy are of foreign origin. For a nation aspiring to become a significant player in the global technology landscape, this overwhelming reliance on foreign technology is deemed unacceptable. Therefore, NOTAP aims to encourage and promote indigenous technological capabilities.
She emphasised that technology is the differentiating factor between developed and developing nations. Given that technology originates from research, NOTAP has introduced strategic programs and initiatives to encourage Nigerian researchers to conduct research that caters to real-world needs, as opposed to conventional research primarily for career advancement.
One such program is the establishment of intellectual property and technology transfer offices (IPTTOs) in various Nigerian knowledge institutions across the country’s geopolitical zones. These offices aim to raise awareness about the crucial role of Intellectual Property (IP) in ensuring the nation’s economic sustainability.
Imiyoho expressed her delight in the impending partnership with COPS Nigeria Ltd. She believes that no agency or government can flourish without exchanging ideas and collaborating with others.
In a statement from the agency’s deputy director of public relations and protocol, Solomon Nshem the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology expressed his enthusiasm regarding the visit and the forthcoming partnership. He highlighted the significant potential of this collaboration to drive high-profile technology investment within the country. He commended NOTAP for its forward-thinking approach and reiterated the ministry’s full support for the partnership.
Similarly, the managing director of COPS Nigeria Ltd., Mr. Simon Naoun conveyed their preference for Nigeria as an investment destination. The company is eager to provide expertise in drone technology with an assembly plant in Nigeria, contribute to satellite development, offer scientific education tools, and make substantial investments in research and development (R&D).
