ENUGU – (Federal Ministry of Science & Technology Report) – The Nigerian Government has granted full scholarships up to Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) level to three young scientists who came tops at the 2018 Young Nigerian Scientists Presidential Award Competition.
President Muhammadu Buhari represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha disclosed this while declaring open the Technology and Innovation Expo 2019 in Enugu, Enugu State lately. He commended the creativity and competitive spirit of the successful candidates: Master Okeke Favour Obianuju from the Federal Capital Territory, Master Fafemi Fisayo Daniel from Kwara State and Master Joshua John Mark from Akwa Ibom State, who emerged first, second and third respectively.
The President reverred that Nigeria’s greatest resource is human capital, adding that this administration will continue to support human resource development which is richly embodied in the youths who make up the tens of millions of incredible talented persons, constantly pushing and striving towards greatness.
“The future of Nigeria belongs to our youths and it behoves on Government to create the enabling environment for them to develop to the fullest their potentials. We will harness their energy and their talents to make Nigeria achieve true greatness,” he intensified.
“It is my conviction that we need the effective promotion and application of Science and Technology to take Nigeria to the next level of a prosperous, strong and stable country. This we can only achieve by deploying innovations in Science and Technology to improve our existing and new infrastructure, fight corruption and poverty, improve national security, promote job creation and encourage local and foreign investment.”
President Muhammadu Buhari further mentioned that the Government will support the creation of innovation funds to strengthen Research and Development, training programmes and partnerships with tertiary institutions, technical schools and trade centres in the area of research. He emphasized that to this end, the National Science Research and Innovation Fund is being considered for the removal of some if its grey areas that can enable its passage into law.
Speaking earlier, the Minister of Science and Technology, Ogbonnaya Onu (Dr) revealed that the present administration is moving Nigeria to a new direction of a knowledge-based economy that is innovation – driven. He stressed that many of the country’s research findings are now products that are available in the market place for people to buy and use. Adding, the Ministry is now making sure that the research engaged focuses on urgent national needs.
The Governor of Enugu State, Ifeanyi Ugwaunyi and all the top executives of the states, including stakeholders in the Science and Technology sector were present at the ceremony.
