At the World Science Day (WSD) 2024 event in Abuja, Nigeria’s Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji reaffirmed the country’s commitment to leveraging science to build a sustainable and peaceful world.
This year’s WSD theme, “Why Science Matters: Engaging Minds and Empowering Futures,” was marked with a quiz competition and exhibition aimed at inspiring students in science.
Nnaji highlighted the need for global cooperation to tackle pressing issues like pandemics, food security, and climate change, calling for collaboration among scientists to strengthen international networks in science, technology and innovation. “Our ministry is committed to driving partnerships across sectors, including health, energy and robotics,” he noted, referencing Nigeria’s progress in initiatives like the methanol revolution, green hydrogen and space technology.
The ministry’s permanent secretary, Mrs. Esuabana Nko-Asanye represented by the ministry’s director of science promotion, Mr. Ronald Okon Ukpong emphasised the limitless potential of science to transform the world, stressing that science can benefit all. She urged participants to embrace innovation and cross-border collaboration to achieve shared goals.
In her goodwill message, UNESCO director-general, Audrey Azoulay, represented by Dr. Enang Moma, emphasised that science plays a key role in peace-building by addressing global challenges such as climate crises and resource scarcity. She underscored UNESCO’s support for women in science, noting a call to action to increase their representation in research.
Representing the FCT’s Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, Mr. Olobashola Kolawole, through Ms. Nwachukwu Angela, described science as the foundation of technology and encouraged young participants to contribute solutions for a brighter future.
Prof. Uno Uno of the Federal University of Technology Minna concluded by encouraging collaboration among scientists, describing science as the “engine behind innovation.” He noted that science thrives on collaboration and shared ideas, essential for advancing technology and solving modern challenges.
