The Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji has said that prosperity today is no longer powered by raw materials alone, but by intellectual capacity, capital, cutting edge research, local innovation and the ability to bring these innovations to the market.
The Minister disclosed this at the 22nd edition of the National Council on Innovation, Science and Technology (NCIST) today in Abuja.
According to Nnaji, the global economic landscape is evolving rapidly, nations that once struggled are now emerging as technology exporters, startup hubs and innovation driven economies not because of their natural resource, but they harnessed the power of research, development and innovation to transform the economy of their Country.
The Minister further said that the theme of the event “Research, Develop, Innovate and Commercialized: A Circle for National Prosperity’’ encapsulates the essence of a modern and knowledge driven economy as it will reposition our nation development agenda on the foundation of research, development, innovation and commercialization (RDIC) cycle.
He pointed out that Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) is very crucial to national development, adding that the Ministry has been entrusted with the responsibility of shaping the ideals that will define the nation future, drive breakthroughs, power our industries, and create solutions that will transform the life of Nigerian citizens.
Uche then emphasized on the need to close the gap between researchers and relevant stakeholders to build an ecosystem where knowledge is not only pursued but applied, nurtured and commercialized for the good of the nation.
Speaking, the Chairman, Senate Committee on Innovation Science and Technology Sen. Aminu Iya Abbass said that no country has ever developed without the full deployment of technological apparatus to all the sectors of the economy.
He also said that the legislative arm of government will support all the activities of the Ministry and its Agencies to achieve its technological breakthrough.
In his goodwill message, the Chairman House Committee on Science, Technology and Innovation Hon. Zakariya Tijjani Zannah represented by Deputy Clerk of the Committee, Ukachukwu Chidiebere, encouraged all stakeholders to remain committed to policies and strategies that will promote the seamless integration of innovation and technology to all sectors of the economy for advancement of Nigeria.
In his speech, the Secretary to Government of the Federation Sen. George Akume who was represented by the Permanent Secretary General Service, Dr. Mbaeri Maurics Nnamdi OON said that the foundation of our journey towards prosperity lies in the capacity to harness knowledge, creativity and develop practical solution that stimulate industrial growth to enhance the quality of life for Nigerians.
Earlier The Permanent Secretary of Innovation, Science and Technology Mrs. Esuabana Nko-Asanye said that the summit is not just about policies or programs, but is a call to action towards creating a dynamic ecosystem where all sectors including public; private, academia, Civil Society and government work together for the benefit of the country,
She explained that these common goals are to build a Nigeria that thrives on the ingenuity of its people and the potentials of its resources to tackle complex challenges that confront the Nation such as unemployment, insecurity, climate change and economic diversification that will enhance socio economy development.
In a paper presented at the event ( NCIST) by Prof. Azikiwe Peter Onwualu, FAS, FAEng emphasized that the path to long term national prosperity lies in adopting a strategic cycle that emphasizes Research, Development, Innovation and Commercialization (RDIC) through robust investment in scientific research, development of applicable technologies fostering of innovation and commercialization of homegrown solutions.
Other speakers, the Ambassador of Cuba Her Excellency Niriam Morales Palmero stated that Cuba is recognized for its advancement in the areas of biotechnology, medicine and scientific research that has a deep interest in strengthening ties with Nigeria in STI sector adding that by working together, both countries can move their nation to a greater height.
Signed
Pauline Sule (Mrs.) anipr
Head (Info & PRU)
