Minister Urges Young Innovators To Lead Nigeria’s Future Growth

The minister of state for education, Suwaiba Ahmad, has called on young innovators to lead Nigeria’s future growth.

Ahmad stated this yesterday during the second annual National Science, Technology, and Innovation Project Exhibition, attended by senior secondary school students from all 36 states, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The National Senior Secondary Education Commission (NSSEC) organised the exhibition, which was themed “Tech Harvest: Digital Solutions for Food Production in Nigeria.”

She emphasised the vital role of creativity, technology, and innovation in shaping the nation’s progress. She urged the youth to harness their skills and ideas to address key challenges, accelerate development, and position Nigeria as a global sector leader.

“As a nation, our ability to harness technology to address food security challenges is essential for sustainable development,” she said.

“If we can translate the knowledge we gain and leverage the digital transformation in the country, many of the challenges we face, including food security, can be tackled. I am very happy to be here with you, and that is why I say, as a youth, you are our future.”

She added, “Young Nigerians are actively engaging with real-world issues and proposing technological solutions that will shape the future of agriculture and food production in our nation. But as I said, we are addressing all aspects of life, not just food security. Bring forth innovative ideas that can solve many of our challenges.”

According to Ahmad, today’s exhibition is a testament to the success of these efforts. She said the projects on display not only highlight the ingenuity of the students but also demonstrate their ability to think critically and creatively.

“These young innovators are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are the problem-solvers of today. We must continue to nurture and support their potential. To my students, I say the future belongs to you, and the possibilities are endless. As they say, the sky is not the limit; it is just the starting point.”

The executive secretary of NSSEC, Dr Iyela Ajayi, expressed pride in the event’s expansion, now including students from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. He acknowledged the support of the honourable minister of state for education and other distinguished guests, emphasizing their critical role in advancing education and innovation.

He outlined NSSEC’s mandate to promote STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Design, and Mathematics), TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training), and entrepreneurial skills.

Ajayi noted that the exhibition serves as a platform for students to showcase their talents and connect with potential partners in government and industry to further develop their projects.

He also highlighted NSSEC’s ongoing efforts to improve senior secondary education, including upgrading schools, teacher training, and policy development.

“One of the mandates of NSSEC is to promote Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Design, and Mathematics (STEAM), Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), as well as entrepreneurial skills at the senior secondary education level in Nigeria,” Ajayi said.