The Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, FMIST, Chief Uche Nnaji, has stressed the need for result oriented collaboration between researchers and inventors to facilitate the commercialization of research outcomes for the development of the science and technology ecosystem. He made this statement during the World Press Briefing on Science, Technology, and Innovation EXPO 2024, with the theme: Science, Technology, and Innovation: Solutions to National Economic Challenges, held at the Headquarters of the National Space Research and Development Agency, NASRDA, in Abuja. According to him, the primary objective of the event is to unite innovators, inventors, research institutions, experts, and relevant stakeholders in promoting locally made goods and services, which will reduce the high cost of importation as well as boost the revenue generation drive of the present administration.
The Minister, who highlighted some of the key objectives of the annual event, further stated that the initiative is pivotal in advancing the’made in Nigeria’ agenda, which is fuelled by indigenous inventions and innovations showcased during the event. He said the objectives underscore the EXPO’s commitment to fostering innovation, driving economic growth, and nurturing a generation of forward thinking individuals poised to tackle global challenges.
According to him, the technology and innovation EXPO, 2024 will last for five days and will feature activities like the exhibition of research, development, and innovative results, an investor and researcher forum, technical sessions, the assessment of research and development results, and the award of prizes. Speaking earlier in her welcome address, the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Mrs. Esuabana Nko-Asanye, said that the numerous challenges confronting the global system have their solutions encapsulated in innovation, science, and technology. She called on the government, MDA’s, experts, and relevant stakeholders to map out strategies in unison that are geared towards accelerating the pace of development of Innovation, Science and technology in the country.
In his vote of thanks, the Director, Science and Technology Promotion, FMSTI, Mr. Ronald Ukpong, commended the efforts of the Honourable Minister and the chief Executive Officer of all the Agencies and parastatals under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Innovation Science and Technology.
He charged them to think outside the box by bringing up research projects that would help in actualizing the renewed hope agenda of Mr. President.
The Science and Technology EXPO is an annual event organised by the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology. The EXPO is aimed at promoting indigenous products and showcasing the potentials of our indigenous innovators, inventors, engineers and scientists.
Daniel Abdullahi, Media and Corporate Communications
