FG Tasks States On Implementation Of STI Policy

The federal government has implored states to implement Nigeria’s policies on science technology and innovation (STI) for the growth and diversification of the Nigerian economy in order to realise the objectives of the “Renewed Hope” of President Bola Tinubu.

Minister of innovation, science and technology, Uche Nnaji, gave the charge while delivering his keynote address at the First Edition of the interactive forum for state commissioners in charge of science and technology held in Abuja.

The minister noted that over the years critical constraints that hindered the effective implementation of Nigeria’s Science and Technology Policy 2012 have been identified. The challenges include the uptake of R&D results, weak collaboration among key stakeholders, inadequate funding, insufficient infrastructure, and weak institutional capacity.

The minister added that the National Science, Technology and Innovation Roadmap (NSTIR) 2017-2030 came on stream as a strategic response to the constraints, stressing that the NSTIR 2017-2030 is to catalyze the effective implementation of the programmes and projects in the STI ecosystem in Nigeria.

“Consequently, the enormous potential of the NSTIR in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President is only realizable when effectively implemented at the sub-national levels.  Therefore, domesticating this roadmap is crucial. It involves the collective responsibility of the national and sub-national governments, policy makers, academia, and the organized private sector to translate the roadmap into tangible actions that produce meaningful impacts,” the minister said.

He urged the states to align their technological advancements with local priorities, providing solutions for region -specific challenges and promoting a more robust and resilient scientific ecosystem that fosters collaboration and knowledge sharing.