STI; A Vital Tool For Economic Transformation And Diversification -Nnaji

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Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji (middle), Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Esuabana Nko Asanye (2nd left) Director, Legal Services Department FMIST, Mr. Tanko Ashang SAN, (left) Director-General, National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency Prof. Mustapha Abdullahi (2nd right) and Chief Executive Officer Flux, Mr. Sam Davies (right) during the display of the Signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) Between the Ministry and Flux Carbon, today in Abuja.
Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji (middle), Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Esuabana Nko Asanye (2nd left) Director, Legal Services Department FMIST, Mr. Tanko Ashang SAN, (left) Director-General, National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency Prof. Mustapha Abdullahi (2nd right) and Chief Executive Officer Flux, Mr. Sam Davies (right) during the display of the Signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) Between the Ministry and Flux Carbon, today in Abuja.

The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji has said that Science and Technology are vital instruments for economic transformation and diversification.

He stated that science and technology are the necessary engines to derive agricultural sector, productivity, wealth creation, alleviation of poverty and food security in the country.

Nnaji said this during the Signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Ministry and Flux Carbon Pte limited today, in Abuja.

According to Nnaji “this agreement marks a significant step in our concerted efforts to address one of the most pressing challenges of our time – food Security”.

He further said that Agriculture is the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, contributing a substantial 25% to the GDP and providing livelihoods for more than 70% of the populace, yet the sector faces immense challenges ranging from climate change to land degradation, adding that the current surge in food prices across the Nation underscores the need for innovative and sustainable solution.

The Minister also, said that signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) symbolizes our commitment to collaborate with local and international partners to create meaningful impact for sustainable agricultural and economic growth of the Country.

Chief Nnaji emphasized that today’s partnership with Flux Carbon Pte Limited is a testament of Government dedication towards increasing crop yields through innovative methods, lower cost for farmers and contribute to suitable Agricultural practices in Nigeria.

He stated that by focusing on sustainable Agriculture, we are not only addressing the immediate needs of Food Security but also creating Jobs and fostering social- economic development of the Nation.

To this end, the Minister commended all the partners for their unwavering commitment towards achieving economic prosperity, environmental sustainability and social wellbeing for Nigerians.

Speaking, the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Esuabana Nko Asanye said that the Ministry is making impact in the global Innovative System by improving on Research outputs to achieve the needs of the Nation.

She further said that Technology being the bedrock of the development of any nation, the signing of Memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Organization will improve the Agricultural yields of the country and enhance food security.

Earlier, the Chief Executive Officer of Flux Carbon Pte Limited, Mr. Sam Daniel, said that the Partnership aligns with the Organization’s commitment to harnessing innovative solutions to address global challenges, particularly in the area of climate change and food security.

He further said that by collaborating with the Government of Nigeria through the Ministry, the company aims to explore the potentials of Enhanced Rock Weathering (ERW) to boost food Security and contribute to Sustainable Development goals in Nigeria.

Atuora Obed O.
Deputy Director/Head
(Information and Public Relations)