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The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji has said that the development of space technology is crucial to national growth. Nnaji stressed that space technology offers transformative solutions to global challenges, ranging from monitoring climate change and managing natural resources to enhance disaster response capabilities worldwide. The Minister stated this at the 25th Anniversary of the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) today, in Abuja.According to Nnaji, “The Anniversary is a celebration of vision, perseverance, and Nigeria’s commitment to harnessing the limitless possibilities of space technology for national development”. He further said that this sector alone is expected to generate over 60% of the new economic value from space enabled technology in the country, adding that the World Economic Forum 2024 projects the global space economy to reach a staggering 1.8 trillion dollars by 2035, driven by advances in satellite technology. Nnaji also said that the growth of space technology will transcend the aerospace sector, influencing industries such as supply chain logistics, agriculture, defense, and digital communication in the country. The Minister pointed out that Space Technology is no longer an abstract pursuit of exploration, stressing that it has become a silence force underpinning our daily lives, noting that the intricate web of satellite censors and space base infrastructure is shaping the modern world to a greater transformation in the future. To this end, Nnaji commended the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), the Defense Space Administration, and the Nigerian Communication Satellite Limited for the planning and execution of the event, adding that their efforts underscore the spirit of collaboration that drives the nation’s achievement in the sector. Atuora Obed O.Director(Information & Public Relations)

The Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, has said that innovation, Science and Technology (IST) are the foundations of sustainable development and economic resilience for any nation which plays a vital role in achieving the eight priority areas outlined by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Nnaji emphasized that empowering youth and women using Federal Institute of Industrial Research Oshodi (FIIRO) developed technologies, including Cassava and Potato bread production, Mushroom cultivation, Cosmetic, date syrup manufacturing, and the conversion of Diesel Generators to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) will contribute to the growth and development of the nation and positively impact on the lives of the citizens. The Minister stated this at the opening ceremony of the training programme for youth and women organised by the Federal Institute of Industrial Research Oshodi (FIIRO), today, in Abuja.According to Nnaji, “to meet our national goals, our Ministry have established strategic partnerships, signing multiple Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) to leverage Nigeria’s local raw materials and human resources. By working closely with regional agencies, we utilize our nation\’s resources to drive innovation across Nigeria\’s Geo-political zones”. He noted that the Ministry’s Technology and Innovation Centres serve as hubs where Stakeholders in the STI Eco-system come together to enhance research and development application and foster innovation, supporting Nigeria’s movement towards industrial and economic strength, as envisioned in the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu\’s eight points agenda. The Minister also said that the Ministry is committed to advancing Nigeria’s industrial and technological base, in alignment with President Tinubu’s eight-point agenda which includes fighting poverty, driving economic growth and fostering job creation for national development.To this end, Nnaji urged all stakeholders to support the young Nigerians by purchasing their product in ensuring their sustainability, adding that prioritizing Nigerian-made goods, as they meet high standards will contribute to national economic growth. He therefore encouraged the trainees to approach the program with dedication, forming innovation clusters that will promote Nigeria’s transition from a consumption-based to a production driven economy. Earlier, the Director -General and Chief Executive officer of the Federal Institute of Industrial Research Oshodi (FIIRO), Dr. Jummai Adamu Tutuwa, said that Innovation, Science and Technology holds the vital key to present and future development of any nation as it plays a fundamental role in wealth creation, improved quality of life, economic growth and transformation in any society. She added that the Agency has been vigorously pursuing its mandates to ensure that Research and Development (R&D), innovation engagement, ultimately translates into products, goods and services in the market place, thereby creating jobs as well as generating income for an improved economy. Atuora Obed O.Deputy Director/Head(Information & Public Relations)

The Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji has said that Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) is a vital tool to building a sustainable and peaceful world, which reaffirms Nigeria’s commitment to harnessing science for a brighter future.Nnaji said this during the 2024 World Science Day celebration with the theme: ‘’Why Science Matters: Engaging Minds and Empowering futures’’ today, in Abuja. According to Nnaji, ‘’this year’s theme: why science matters: Engaging Minds and Empowering Futures highlight the needs for global collaboration to address challenges like pandemics, food security and climate crisis’’. The Minister stated that the Ministry is committed to driving partnership across sectors from Health, Energy and Robotics with over 22 international collaborations that is advancing in areas like methanol revolution, green hydrogen tech, city development and space technology in order to strengthen the country’s science, innovation and technology capabilities. He further said that the Ministry is also investing in the country’s future through initiative like the Artificial Intelligent (AI), Cassava Value Chain development and programme for youths and innovators, adding that this world Science Day, its missions and the quiz competition aimed to inspire students in sciences. Nnaji reiterated that Covid -19 reminds us that gratitude scientific Collaboration is essentials to the country’s growth and development.To this end, the Minister pointed out that aligning the Nigeria’s value with global scientific and technological goals will strengthen our role in international science and technology networks for the advancement of the nation. In the quiz competition, Federal Government Boys College Apo took 1st position, School for the Gitfted Gwagwalada and Olumawo College, Wuse 2 took 2nd position, while Government Science Secondary School took 3rd position, while in the exhibition category, Government Science Technical College, Garki took 1st position, Great Height Academy, Kado took 2nd position and Government Secondary School Tunganmaje took 3rd position. Speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Esuabana Nko Asanye, who was represented by the Director Science, Technology and Promotion, Mr. Ronald Ukpong Okon said that the objectives of the World Science Day is to create public awareness on the role of science for peaceful and sustainable socialites, promotes national and international solidarity for shared science between countries, renew global commitment for the use of science and draw attention to the challenges faced by scientists amongst others.She therefore encouraged all to embrace the World Science Day not just as a celebration but a guiding principle in our efforts to move the country forward. Earlier, the representative of the United Nation Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), Dr. Enang Moma in her good will message said that collaboration between stakeholders is essential, and making this dialogue accessible to as many people as possible is precisely one of the key focuses on open science. She further said that UNESCO support the work of women scientists who currently account for only one third of the world researchers, adding that for 25 years the partnership between UNESCO and the L’Oreal Foundation has supported the careers of over 4,400 women scientists in 140 countries. Atuora Obed O.Deputy Director/ Head(Information & Public Relations)

Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, has said that the Federal Government will create 4.4 million jobs through the implementation of the National strategy for competitiveness in Raw Material and Products Development in Nigeria. Nnaji stated that the implementation of the National strategy will not only enhance the creation of employment, and our quest for economic diversification but will also, boost local content in manufacturing to 50% and 80% respectively, for global acceptance of made-in-Nigeria raw materials, products and services which will ensure global competitiveness in the country. Nnaji said this during the Conference of the National Consultative Committee on Global Competitiveness in Raw Materials and Products Development in Nigeria, with the theme: “Harnessing Local Resources for Diversifying Nigerian Economy and Enhancing Global Competitiveness\” today, in Abuja. According to the Minister the theme: ‘’Harnessing Local Resources for Diversifying Nigeria and Enhancing Global Competitiveness is aimed at championing the country’s global competitiveness diversification through investments in Innovation and Technology, Research and Development, Infrastructure and Human Capital Development’’. He further said that global Competitiveness is the lifeblood of any thriving economy as it underscores the ability to produce goods and services that meet the standard of the international market by strengthening the citizens\’ long-term real income. Nnaji emphasized that the nation’s part in global Competitiveness lies in leveraging the enormous powers of Innovation, Science and Technology, in value addition and indigenous industrialization of the country. In the same vein, he said that Science and Technology are the Cornerstones of Global Competitiveness, which ensures continuous investments in cutting-edge technologies that will improve the quality of Local Content in the nation. To this end, Nnaji encouraged all stakeholders to continue to form a strategic coalition within the resultant production of high-quality and competitive raw materials products and services to improve Nigerians’ ranking on the Global Index. Speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Esuabana Nko Asanye who was represented by the Director, of Planning Research and Policy Analysis, Mrs. Salamatu Mohammed, said that the Conference is a forum to discuss critical issues relevant to the successful implementation of the National Strategy on Global Competitiveness in Raw Materials and Products Development in Nigeria. She further said that the Conference theme is quite appropriate at this point of our national development and in recognition of the 8-priority areas of the present Administration.The Director General of Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) Prof. Nnanyelugo Martin Ike-Muonso while welcoming the guests said that the successful implementation of the home-grown strategy anchored on applying Innovation, Science and Technology to raw materials and product development is a unique change agent in the national development initiatives, adding that it will reduce the level of importation of raw materials and products into the country. He stressed that the technical workshop allows stakeholders to deliberate on critical issues ranging from Competitiveness, and advocacy to commercialization of Research and Development breakthroughs in the country. The representative of the Organized Private Sector, Dr. Henry Emejo in his goodwill message enjoined the stakeholders and Nigerians to collaborate and work together in order to achieve the desired socio-economic development of the country. Earlier, Sir Henry Eteama, the Project Manager, the Strategy Implementation Task Unit (SITU) said that the SITU strategy identifies the specific roles and responsibilities of stakeholders with emphasis on government policy and legal frameworks while Research and Development Institutions, Academia, Industries and Businesses are saddled with production and demand-driven R&D outputs Eteama then, called on Nigerians to ensure that the project succeeds, stressing that only our collective efforts and commitment to nation building can achieve the desired goals of our country.

The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji has said that the Ministry is ready to collaborate with the stakeholders for the economic growth of Nigeria. Nnaji stated that collaborative spirit has been instrumental in addressing national challenges and paving the way for a prosperous future of any nation, Nigeria inclusive.According to Nnaji, today, I am pleased to formally announce that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Administration is highly interested in the creation of the National Research and Development Innovation (RDI) Coordination Centre under the supervision of the Ministry of Innovation Science and Technology. This centre will serve as a strategic hub for integrating and enhancing our RDI efforts nationwide, ensuring that we capitalize on our collective knowledge and resources”.The Minister said this when a delegation of Research for Impact Knowledge Economy and Sustainable Development (RIKESP) led by the Executive Director, Dr Mustapha Ayo Poopola, presented him a report on the Nigeria Research Development Innovation Coordination Submit and Think-Tank of the Eight (8) Presidential Priority Areas of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, today in Abuja. Nnaji further said that the present Administration is highly interested in the creation of the National Research Development and Innovation Centre under the supervision of the Ministry. He pointed out that the Centre will serve as a strategic hub for integrating and enhancing our Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) efforts nationwide to ensure that we capitalize on our collective knowledge and resources in the country. To this end, the Minister enjoined all the Agencies under the Ministry to fully engage with the RDI coordination centre for active participation is crucial for the seamless motivation and success of the initiative in the country. He then, commended the team for their dedication and commitment towards the realization of the project, adding that together we will build a brighter and more prosperous Nigeria. Speaking, the Permanent Secretary of Innovation, Science and Technology, Mrs. Esuabana Nko Asanye said that Science Technology and Innovation are the bedrock of development for any nation, Nigeria inclusive. She further said that no country will develop without the full deployment of scientific apparatus to all the sectors of the economy. She emphasized that the Ministry is putting in place tools that will enhance the transformation of research and development products into goods and services for the commercialization and economic growth of the Nation. Earlier, the Executive Director of Research for Impact Knowledge Economy and Sustainable Development (RIKESP) Dr. Mustapha Ayo Poopola, said that the idea of the project is to use the instrumentality of Science, Technology and Innovation, Research and Development to interface with Mr. President’s eight (8) priority areas for the socio-economy development of the nation. He then enjoined the Ministry and agencies of Government to leverage Mr. President’s directives to work in synergy in order to achieve the socio-economic advancement of the country.

The Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science, and Innovation, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji has said that the Federal Government has given Grants Award to thirty-two (32) innovators and inventors across the six geo-political zones of the country. Nnaji stated that the Presidential Standing Committee on Inventions and Innovations (PSCII) was inaugurated by the Federal Government in October 2005, to encourage and promote inventions and innovations in the country. The Minister who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry Mrs. Esuabana Nko Asanye said this at the 2023 Grants Award Ceremony of the Presidential Standing Committee on Inventions and Innovations (PSCII) today in Abuja. He further said that more than 600 inventors and innovators have benefitted from the grants across the six geo-political zones of the country, since the inception of the PSCII programme in 2005. He also, said that collaboration with the private sector will facilitate the achievement of the desired goal of the Programme by providing a solid foundation for a technological breakthrough as well as improving the socio-economic development of Nigeria. In the same vein, Nnaji @ChiefUcheNnaji stated that global competitiveness will contribute to job and wealth creation, improved well-being and quality of lives of Nigerians.To this end, the Minister urged the beneficiaries to utilize the Grants judiciously and then, encouraged them to work hard in order to surmount the challenges of unemployment and poverty in the country. Speaking, the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Esuabana Nko Asanye who was represented by the Deputy Director, overseeing the Department of Technology Acquisition and Adaptation (TAA), Eng. Azuftama Dahiru said that N47, 000,000.00 was granted to the 32 beneficiaries. Esuabana Nko Asanye while stating that the grants range from one to five million naira to each awardee, added that the Programme is to encourage Nigerians particularly, those in the informal sector that have viable technological ideas capable of impacting positively on the citizenry and the economy. Earlier in her goodwill message, the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Board for Technology Incubation (NBTI) Dr. Patricia Uche Chukwu said that inventions and innovations advancement ensure great technological progress which assures efficient production, prosperity and economic growth of the Country.

The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji @ChiefUcheNnaji 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 the 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 the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) symbolizes our commitment to collaborate with local and international partners to create a 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 to the Government\’s dedication towards increasing crop yields through innovative methods, lowering costs for farmers and contributing 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 well-being for Nigerians. Speaking, the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Esuabana Nko Asanye said that the Ministry is making an impact in the global Innovative System by improving 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 a 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 potential of Enhanced Rock Weathering(ERW) to boost food security and contribute to Sustainable Development Goals in Nigeria.

The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji has said that the role of Chemistry is critical to the technological advancement of Nigeria. Nnaji said this when the delegation from the Chemical Society of Nigeria (CSN) led by its President Professor Rufus Sha’ato paid him a courtesy visit today, in Abuja. According to the Minister, the Ministry acknowledges the critical role of Chemistry in sustainable development as well as aligning with the National Science and Technology and Innovation Policy (NSTI) and the National Science, Technology Roadmap (NSTIR) 2030 which is key to fast-track the socio-economic development of the Country. He further stated that his recognition for the fellowship of CSN reflects our shared commitment to advancing chemical sciences in Nigeria and our collaborative efforts that will lead the nation to a greater height. Nnaji noted that Umaru Musa Yar’adua’s House project aligns with the Ministry’s goals of facilitating the development and deployment of science and technology apparatus to enhance the technological infrastructure and research capacity of the nation. He emphasized that partnership is crucial for advancing Nigeria’s Scientific and Technological landscape, stressing that together we can foster economic growth and global competitiveness. To this end, the Minister commended the society for advancing infrastructural development in the country and assured the Ministry’s support to the Organisation. Speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Esuabana Nko Asanye, said that Chemistry is the hub of all Science Subjects. Esuabana pointed out that Executive Order No. 5 of 2018 deemed it fit for the study of chemistry among other science subjects for the promotion of Nigerian local content in projects and contracts. She then promised the Ministry’s support to the society and urged it to be dedicated and committed to the research and development of chemical sciences, towards enhancing the living standard of the citizenry. Earlier, the President of the Chemical Society of Nigeria, Prof. Rufus Sha’ato said that the society has made considerable and notable strides in the advancement of Research and Development in the chemical sciences. He further stated that CSN is aware of the Ministry’s core mandate of formulating policies that are geared towards promoting and harnessing the expertise of Nigerian researchers for national growth.

The Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Geoffrey Nnaji, has said that value addition to our raw materials before exportation is key to unlocking the economic potentials of Nigeria’s Raw Materials sector. Nnaji emphasised that with value addition, Nigeria will create more jobs, reduce poverty, stimulate the growth of domestic manufacturing and ultimately strengthen the value of our currency. The Minister stated this during the programme presentation and Dialogue Session with Development Partners, Diplomatic Community and Business Councils 2024 Edition, today in Abuja. According to Nnaji, ‘’we cannot achieve these milestones alone, we are here today because we need the collective wisdom, expertise and resources that each of you our valued partners bring to the table’’. He said that Nigeria’s raw material value addition from the current 5% to a target of at least 60% represents a bold vision for the country’s future where our raw materials are no longer exported in their good form, but processed and enriched to maximize their value before leaving our shores. Nnaji noted that we must ensure that raw materials are utilized efficiently, reducing waste and embracing circular economic principles that can extend the life circle of materials. To this end, he urged the Development partners, members of the Diplomatic Community, the Business Council and Financial Institutes to consider it not only desirable but also expedient to collaborate with the Raw Material Research and Development Council (RMRDC) in this transformative effort. Speaking, the Chairman Senate Committee on Science and Technology, Senator Aminu Iya Abbas, said that the National Assembly is ready to pass any bill on policy that will enable raw materials to be processed and add value for exportation. He stated that adding value to raw materials will provide more foreign exchange to the country. Speaking also, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Esuabana Nko Asanye said that collaboration and technical expertise are the blueprint for transforming Nigeria’s Raw Materials sector into a globally competitive and sustainable ecosystem. She further stated that the roadmap aligns with the vision articulated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in his Keynote Address at the recently concluded 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) where he highlighted the paradox of Africa’s vast natural resources and the continent dependency on foreign markets. Earlier, the representative of the African Development Bank, Professor Alfred Cubana, said that despite Africa’s landmarks and natural resources, the continent still remains the least developed, which is why the African Development Bank has a 10-year strategic plan for the improvement of quality of life of Africans and has been building capacities to enable them to manage their resources.

The Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji has said that the partnership with the Grand Challenge Nigeria Project is a broader agenda to create a resilient and knowledge driven economy that prioritize local solutions for local challenges. According to Nnaji, ‘’working together we are investing in Nigeria’s future, building a foundation for sustainable development, and positioning our nation as a leader in Innovation on the African Continent’’.The Minister said this, during the signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)between the Ministry and Grand Challenge Nigeria (GCNg) today in Abuja. He further said that the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) represents a pivotal step in advancing Innovation and addressing some of the Country’s most pressing needs such as economic growth, capital development and social welfare.Nnaji pointed out that the Ministry is prepared for the National launch of Grand Challenge Nigeria (GCNg) project scheduled to hold on 18th November,2024. The Minister also, stated that the launch will be a land mark, aligning with the President Ahmed Bola Tinubu’s vision to harness Science and Technology as drivers of economic transformation, improve infrastructure and enhance quality of life for Nigerians. To this end, Nnaji commended the Organization for its vision and dedication to the cause, adding that, together we are embarking on a journey with the potential to create lasting impact and contribute to the achievement of the eight (8) points agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.Speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs Esuabana Nko Asanye said that the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding with Grand Challenge Nigeria is apt at the time the world is distressed with the issue of nutrition as a result of climate change mitigation.She further said that the collaboration will tackle the issue of good nutrition, especially for the vulnerable in the Country. Earlier, the leader of the delegation, prof. Salisu Maiwada Abubakar, said that the Organization is a localized initiative under the Global Grand Challenge family, designed to drive innovation and solve critical health and developmental challenges in the Country.He further stated that the Organization aims to empower Nigerian Researchers, Scientists and Development practitioners to use innovative solutions in addressing local challenges of the Nation. Atuora Obed O.Deputy Director/Head(Information & Public Relations)