The Federal Government says that Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) requires unwavering political will and strategic partnerships to deliver and contribute more to national economic growth.
Mrs Esuabana Nko-Asanye, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, said this at the opening of the 22nd National Council on Innovation, Science and Technology (NCIST) meeting in Abuja.
The theme of the meeting is “Research, Develop, Innovate and Commercialise: A Cycle for National Prosperity”.
The Permanent Secretary also serves as the chairperson of the Technical Committee on STI.
Nko-Asanye said the meeting underscored the need to prioritise and institutionalise innovation, science and technology as fundamental pillars for addressing national challenges and propelling sustainable development and growth.
“The journey to a technologically advanced and innovation-driven Nigeria requires far more than well-crafted policies.
“It calls for unwavering political will, strategic and sustained partnerships, and a deep sense of collective accountability across all sectors.
“While policy lays the foundation, it is our commitment to implementation, collaboration and shared responsibility that will drive our true transformation,” she said.
She said the council, over the years, had provided the platform for dialogue, policy harmonisation and review of strategic interventions targeted at mainstreaming STI across sectors.
Nko-Asanye said the 22nd edition of the meeting would build on the successes of the previous editions to grow a robust national innovation ecosystem.
“We have the capacity to shape a future where STIs are not just policy priorities but practical goals that improve lives, grow our economy and secure our place in the global knowledge society,” she said.
Dr Matthew Adepoju, Director-General, National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), said that STI was the bedrock of the 4th Industrial Revolution.
Adepoju said it was time for the rebirth of STIs in Nigeria to make it more attractive to the younger generation.
“This is a clear call to all of us as the drivers of policies and implementers of the policies of federal and state governments alike that the Nigerian STI ecosystem requires a rebirth.
“This rebirth can be achieved by the active support of all stakeholders in the ecosystem,” Adepoju said.
He reiterated that the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government would not be achievable without STI.
Mrs Atinuke Chaman, Permanent Secretary, Nasarawa State Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, said the state government would align with national policies to promote research, digital transformation and industrial growth.
Chaman spoke on behalf of other permanent secretaries.
“As we deliberate on critical issues, I am confident that this council will yield actionable strategies to propel Nigeria towards a knowledge-driven economy.
“Nasarawa State stands ready to support and implement resolutions that will enhance our collective progress,” she said.
Prof. Paul Onyenekwe, Director-General of Sheda Science and Technology Complex (SHESTCO), pledged the commitment of agencies and parastatals under the ministry to implement the resolutions of the meeting.
The NCIST comprises the Federal Ministry of STI, State Ministries, parastatals and agencies of government, research institutions, academia, STI associations, among other stakeholders.
The meeting will last from May 12 to May 14.
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