Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji has expressed concern that most of the research outcomes that otherwise would have catapulted Nigeria to a technologically developed nation are not being translated fully into essential goods and services.
He said this on Tuesday at a press briefing to usher in this year, 2024 Technology and Innovation Expo tagged “STI: Solution to National Economic Challenges”, scheduled for 11th to 15th March, 2024, at Eagle Square Abuja.
Nnaji said: “The primary objective of this event is to unite innovators, inventors, research institutions, universities, federal and sub-national ministries, departments, agencies (MDAs), polytechnics, industries, stakeholders in the organized private sector, the international community, Nigerians in the diaspora, and others.
“This collective effort aims to promote locally made goods and services, which will reduce the high cost of importation, enhance revenue generation, create employment opportunities, and improve our country’s standard of living. These initiatives are pivotal in advancing the “Made in Nigeria” agenda, fueled by indigenous inventions and innovations showcased during the event.
The Minister outlined other objectives of the Expo aims to include:
“Foster collaboration between Researchers and Inventors to facilitate the commercialization of research outcomes, inventions, and innovations from Nigeria’s research and tertiary institutions.
“Showcase the expertise of Nigerian Scientists, Engineers, and inventors, highlighting their significant contributions to Nigeria’s economic diversification.
“Promote collaboration among research institutions and researchers/inventors to enhance the synergy in the innovation ecosystem.
“Promote indigenous manufacturing rooted in Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) while cultivating a culture of STI across Nigeria.
“Raise awareness in primary and secondary schools regarding the pivotal role of scientific knowledge and vocational skills in driving economic growth and development.
“Engage students in primary and secondary schools in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) to foster their interest and proficiency in these fields.
“Spark curiosity and enthusiasm for Science and Technology among the younger generation, inspiring them to explore innovative solutions.”
Nnaji further stated that the Expo aimed to ensure “the proper exposure of our investors to our commercializable research results, inventions, and innovations.”
“Let me emphasize that there are profitable investment opportunities in the various research outcomes to make any enterprise worthwhile.
“I, therefore, seize this opportunity to appeal to Nigerian Techpreneurs in the Organized Private Sector (OPS) to be patriotic and inward-looking and come and partner with the Ministry in developing our STI outcomes for the nation’s cultural, socioeconomic and political development.
“Let me reassure the nation that the present administration is fully committed to ensuring that its renewed hope agenda of accelerating diversification through industrialization, digitization, creative arts, manufacturing and innovation is achieved, mainly through the application of Science, Technology and Innovation.
“I am very much optimistic that with our collective unrelenting efforts in our quest to achieve a service-driven economy that is competitive in terms of culture, socioeconomics, and political independence, the future of our dear country will be great.”
