The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji has emphasised that science, technology and Innovation (STI) are essential tools for creating a sustainable and peaceful world.
Nnaji made this statement today in Abuja during the 2024 World Science Day celebration, themed “Why Science Matters: Engaging Minds and Empowering Futures.”
“This year’s theme highlights the need for global collaboration to address challenges such as pandemics, food security, and climate crises,” Nnaji said.
The minister explained that the ministry is committed to partnerships across sectors, including health, energy and robotics, with over 22 international collaborations advancing in areas such as methanol revolution, green hydrogen technology, city development and space technology to strengthen Nigeria’s science, innovation, and technology capabilities.
He further noted that the ministry is investing in the country’s future through initiatives like artificial intelligence (AI), cassava value chain development and youth-focused programmes for innovation. He added that World Science Day, along with missions and a quiz competition, aims to inspire students to pursue science.
Nnaji stressed that COVID-19 reminded everyone of the importance of scientific collaboration for national growth and development. Aligning Nigeria’s values with global scientific and technological goals, he said, will strengthen the country’s role in international science and technology networks for national advancement.
In the quiz competition, Federal Government Boys College Apo took first place, School for the Gifted Gwagwalada and Olumawo College Wuse 2 came joint second, while Government Science Secondary School came third. In the exhibition category, Government Science Technical College Garki claimed first place, Great Height Academy Kado came second and Government Secondary School Tunganmaje came third.
A statement from the ministry’s deputy director of information and public relations, Atuora Obed mentioned that the permanent secretary of the ministry, Mrs. Esuabana Nko-Asanye, represented by the director of science, technology and promotion, Mr. Ronald Ukpong Okon explained that World Science Day seeks to raise public awareness of science’s role in building peaceful and sustainable societies, promotes national and international solidarity for science, renews global commitment to science and highlights challenges faced by scientists.
She encouraged everyone to embrace World Science Day as not just a celebration but a guiding principle in advancing the nation.
In her goodwill message, Dr. Enang Moma, representing UNESCO, highlighted the importance of collaboration between stakeholders and making scientific dialogue accessible as a focus of open science. She also noted that UNESCO’s support for women scientists—who currently represent only one-third of researchers worldwide—is significant, adding that UNESCO and the L’Oreal Foundation have supported over 4,400 women scientists in 140 countries over the past 25 years.
