Federal Government has established technology and innovation centres to upscale global competitiveness and production of goods and services.
Speaking at the flag-off of the technology and innovation centres in Abuja, the Minister of Science Technology and Innovation, Dr Adeleke Mamora, said the move was to engage stakeholders to dialogue on the implementation through Presidential Executive Order EO No.5.
Dr Mamora explained that the centres would serve as an avenue for the promotion of technology utilization for competitiveness.
He noted that the centres would also provide Nigerians with needed information on Science Technology and Innovation through interaction with scientists.
The Minister said: “Though this is the first dialogue ever to be held in line with the E0-5, it has also become important for Science Technology and Innovation to play an important role in the fiscal and monetary policies of the country for a better today and tomorrow.”
According to him, the Theme of the meeting “Achieving Nigeria’s Competitiveness and improved foreign Exchange Earning through Science, Technology and Innovation” funding of STI was critical hence the need for privatization to enable the ministry to carry out its mandate.
Also, the Minister of State, Dr Henry Ikechukwu, said the centres would serve as a hub for the promotion of technology utilization, strengthen its management and facilitate commercialisation.
Speaking, the commissioner of science and technology from Bayelsa State Dr Promise Ekio urged the government to use Executive Order No. 5 to address the challenge of oil theft in the Niger Delta.
The Participants expressed commitment to work with the ministry in achieving its mandate for visible and sustainable progress to be attained in the country, drastic efforts must be made to develop its indigenous STI base.
Radio Nigeria reports that the event attracts stakeholders from academics, the private sector and researchers
RN/ Editing by Hanan, Precious[