By Vivian Onyebukwa
The Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Senator Adeleke Olorunnimbe Mamora, has disclosed government’s commitment to protect researchers, inventors and innovators in the country.
Mamora stated this while declaring open, South West Dialogue on the Establishment of the Technology and Inovation Centre in Lagos.
He said that the establishment of the centre is in line with Presidential Executive Order No, 5 STI Policy of 2022, and the Abuja adopted recommendations FARI, to protect researchers, inventors, and Innovators, with appropriate legal framework.
These framework, he said, include, issuance of patent and other intellectual property rights, creation of conducive and enabling environment for work, reward to scientists and researchers for successful commercialisation of research and innovation efforts. It is aimed at attracting more women and children into research and innovation.
The Minister, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Monilola Udoh, pledged government’s resolve to work tirelessly to remove all obstacles, close all gaps, encourage cooperation and collaboration among R/D institutions and OPS, and ensure that there is cordial relationship among critical stakeholders within the STI ecosystem in the country. According to the Minister, this will help to reduce cost of productivity in the supply chain, stabilize Forex crises, provide a solid foundation for irreversible industrialisation that is inclusive and sustainable for national development, employment generation and creation of the country’s common wealth for the good of all.
The two-day event with the theme: “Achieving Nigeria’s Competitiveness and Improved Foreign Exchange Earnings Through Science, Technology and Innovation”, which brought together relevant stakeholders in science, technology and innovation.
The National Cordinator and Chief Executive of the program, Engr Ibiam Oguejiofo, said the essence of the hub is to have where technology and Innovation of ecosystem can be discussed to see how they can produce markets that will be good enough for export.
Henry Efeama, National Coordinator/Director, Science, Promotion, and DG PMRDC/ Prof Willie Siyabola, re- instated the efforts of the government to put Nigeria on the global arena by trying to imbibe culture to be used to be able to achieve that. “We want a paradigm shift. We want to look inwards and use science and technology to improve the way we do things, to create jobs, and for sustainability”.
Lagos State Commissioner, Ministry of Science and Technology, lauded the federal government’s efforts, adding that Lagos State is already on the pedestrial, onthe establishment of Technology Council by giving out grants to fill infrastructural gaps in the State. “This program will uplift what the government is doing already, giving grants to researchers, innovators of over 250Million”.
The Commissioner who was represented by Dr Iyabo Phillips, Director, Science Program and Promotion in the ministry, expressed their desire to partner with the FMSTI.